Safety measures discussed after serious scooter accident in Imatra, Finland

In Imatra, youth worker Tomi Hämäläinen describes scooter meet-ups as akin to the “Wild West.” He emphasizes the need for adults to create safer environments for these gatherings, noting that young people themselves are calling for adult supervision and guidance at events.

Hämäläinen suggests several measures to enhance safety at scooter meet-ups, including involving adults in the activities, organizing supervised or traffic-free locations for the events, and, conversely, some advocate for a complete ban on these gatherings.

The conversation around safety gained urgency after a serious accident at a scooter meet in Imatra, South Karelia, where two young riders, aged 17 and 18, sustained severe injuries following a high-speed collision. Both individuals were riding without valid motorcycle licenses and ended up in the hospital. Police have yet to interview them due to their injuries.

Hämäläinen highlights the importance of police presence at these events and hopes they can be informed in advance to ensure safety. Scooter meet-ups are a popular leisure activity among youth throughout Finland, and the local youth are actively discussing how to make these gatherings safer.

The recent accident had many witnesses, and numerous young individuals expressed the need to talk about what they witnessed, which Hämäläinen believes has brought some peace of mind to those affected.

Scooter riding remains a significant hobby for many in Imatra, with Hämäläinen believing that more meet-ups are likely to occur in the coming fall.