Agricultural accidents involving tractors result in 79 fatalities in Iceland since 1960s

Since the mid-20th century, agricultural accidents involving tractors and related equipment have resulted in the deaths of approximately 79 individuals, including farmers and children, in Iceland. Notably, such fatal incidents were three times more prevalent among children than adults during this period.

The dangers associated with tractors have risen since their widespread adoption in the 1960s, leading to a surge in reported accidents. Professors Jónína Einarsdóttir and her husband, physician Geir Gunnlaugsson, have compiled data on these incidents, revealing a staggering number of fatalities occurring in rural areas after tractors became commonplace.

Of the 79 fatalities, 30 were farmers, 26 were local children, and 13 were visiting children. Additionally, fatalities included eight guests and two adult children of farmers. Statistics indicate that nearly three-quarters of the victims were farmers or children, with one in five being boys visiting the countryside for the summer.

Most fatalities occurred in the 1960s and 70s, a time when there was limited access to trauma care or psychological support. Public concern over these accidents grew, leading to debates in Parliament regarding whether it should be prohibited for children to operate tractors. Ultimately, a previously established 18-year minimum age for operating tractors off public roads was lifted.

Record-keeping indicates that 50 of the deceased were operating the tractor that led to their accident, with 30% of them being younger than the legal age at the time of the incident. Jónína notes that tractors were generally the first vehicles farmers operated, often without any previous driving experience, contributing to the hazard.