Automatic train control system could have reduced risk of collision, says accident commission

The Danish Accident Investigation Board states that an automatic train control system—absent on the stretch where two trains collided in North Zealand—significantly lowers the risk of accidents, DR reports.

Ten people remain hospitalised after Tuesday’s head-on collision between Hillerød and Kagerup, which occurred near Isterødvejen. The two train drivers suffered serious fractures, according to their employer. Train services on the Gribskov line are expected to resume on Tuesday next week, with replacement bus services operating until then.

Klaus Jensen, head of the board’s railway unit, confirmed in a written statement to DR that previous investigations into collisions on lines without automatic control systems have shown such technology “would substantially reduce collision risks.” The systems automatically monitor trains and apply brakes in hazardous situations.

However, Jensen cautioned that the investigation into Tuesday’s accident remains in its early stages. “We are still gathering facts and data. It is far too soon to determine the cause or contributing factors needed to provide the best recommendations,” he said.

Local operators reconsider safety measures
Lokaltog A/S, which operates the Gribskov line and other routes in Zealand and Lolland-Falster, has relied on existing safety protocols rather than advanced automatic systems. Safety director Claus René Pedersson acknowledged the collision may prompt a reassessment.

“An incident like this forces us to re-evaluate whether current measures are sufficient for this stretch,” Pedersson told DR. He stressed the need to first establish the exact circumstances: “We must determine whether a different system would have made a difference.”

Pedersson sought to reassure passengers: “While this accident is deeply unsettling, our monitoring and competencies ensure it remains safe to travel once services resume.”

Repairs underway
Crews are replacing damaged railway sleepers and inspecting tracks for irregularities before trains can return. The collision site has been cleared, with both trains removed from the area.

The Gribskov line currently lacks either the basic Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system—installed on the Hornbæk line after a 2002 accident—or the more advanced Automatic Train Control (ATC), which can halt trains that pass stop signals or exceed speed limits.