Bus drivers and passengers demand safety changes after fatal crash

A group of bus drivers and passengers is calling on Midttrafik to overhaul its practices following a January collision on Djursland that killed two passengers, DR reports.

Two Midttrafik buses crashed on an icy road near Hornslet on 14 January. A driver has since been charged with negligent homicide.

The group, “Together for Safe Public Transport,” argues that outsourcing routes to competing companies compromises safety. Spokesperson and driver Per Nielsen said the petition, which has gathered 126 signatures in 10 days, demands Midttrafik bring all route operations in-house.

“It’s not directly about the Djursland crash, but the debate afterward revealed widespread dissatisfaction and unease among passengers,” Nielsen said.

Midttrafik declined an interview but stated in writing that it takes the concerns seriously. The company rejected claims that outsourcing endangers safety, calling a full reversal of the practice neither simple nor immediate. It pledged to maintain strict safety and quality standards in future contracts.

Midttrafik cited its 2025 customer survey, where 94% of passengers reported general satisfaction with bus services and 95% with driver performance.