A shocking multi-vehicle accident occurred on Saturday evening along the Lahti highway near Mantsälä, Finland, during the busy holiday traffic. The chaotic scene involved at least twelve vehicles and has sparked both concern and curiosity about the contributing factors leading to the crash.
According to the Eastern Uusimaa police, the chain collision was potentially caused by smoke from traditional Yuletide bonfires, known as jätkänkynttilät. Crime Commissioner Henri Karjalainen, the lead investigator on the scene, reported the fires were set about 30 meters from the highway, and the resulting smoke severely diminished visibility for drivers. "Several jätkänkynttilöitä were burning several tens of meters away from the road," he stated, emphasizing the role of smoke in the accident.
Eyewitness accounts reveal dramatic experiences as drivers grappled with the sudden visibility issues. One of the drivers, Aaro, 18, was en route to Helsinki-Vantaa airport when he found himself facing thick, unexpected smoke. "A full wall [of smoke] came out of nowhere," he recounted, illustrating the perilous moment when he had to brake abruptly to avoid crashing. "I managed to steer onto the right shoulder of the road, and luckily, nothing happened to me or my car," he added, reflecting on the frightening ordeal.
The collision reportedly involved thirteen vehicles, though there was some discrepancy concerning the count, with rescue services noting up to 28 people were present at the scene. Fortunately, no serious injuries emerged from the chaos, which is something many, including MTK's community relations director Jussi Martikainen, celebrated. "It is really unfortunate if they have been responsible for this accident," Martikainen remarked about the bonfires, which are part of long-standing traditions aimed at wishing motorists safe travels during the Christmas season.
Traditionally, the jätkänkynttilät are lit across Finland to celebrate the holidays, with more than hundreds set ablaze this year. Despite their historical safety record, this incident has raised concerns about the possible dangers associated with the practice. "I don’t recall any instances where these bonfires have previously posed risks to traffic," Martikainen stated, underscoring the unexpected nature of the accident.
With the police now investigating the incident for endangering traffic safety, many are watching closely to see what measures, if any, may arise from this rare occurrence. Local authorities are reviewing the conditions surrounding the fires and may reassess the safety protocols associated with them during the holiday season. "We are awaiting the results of the police investigation and considering any necessary changes for next year's events," Martikainen noted.
The aftermath of the accident saw heavily congested traffic, especially heading toward Helsinki. Following the incident, emergency services arrived quickly to manage the scene, leading to traffic redirection and contributing to delays. Rescued vehicles were towed away, and road cleaning crews were called to address any debris left from the collision.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential hazards present not only during holiday festivities but also when engaging with long-held customs, underscoring the importance of awareness and caution on the roads. Individuals are encouraged to exercise vigilance during their travels, especially during the busy holiday period when visibility can be impaired by unexpected conditions.
With traditions deeply rooted within Finnish culture, the event calls for reflection and perhaps even reform concerning holiday practices related to road safety. The community remains hopeful for improved measures to prevent such incidents from occurring again, ready to balance festive customs with the demands of traffic safety.
