Three students suffered serious head injuries in float accidents, but authorities refuse to tighten rules

Three students were hospitalised with serious head injuries last year after striking their heads on bridges while riding on open-top graduation floats, Danish broadcaster DR reports.

The incidents occurred in Vallensbæk and Ishøj during student celebrations, prompting the Danish Student Transport Association—representing half of the country’s graduation float operators—to call for mandatory tarpaulin or roof coverings on all floats to prevent passengers from standing up and hitting obstacles.

Association chair Christian Heron said the two accidents happened because students could extend their heads or torsos above the float’s fixed structure. “We need a physical barrier to stop people from getting hurt in a moment of recklessness,” he told DR.

The association has repeatedly urged the Danish Road Directorate to introduce stricter rules, most recently in May. But the directorate has rejected the proposal, stating that current regulations provide sufficient safety if followed.

Team leader Tanja Skyum-Nielsen said the directorate balances traffic safety, cost, and tradition when considering new requirements. “If vehicles meet technical standards and students behave responsibly, the event can be conducted safely,” she said.

Heron expressed frustration, arguing that the association witnesses the gaps in safety firsthand. The group now plans to escalate the issue to the transport minister.