Two people are seriously injured following a head-on collision between two passenger vehicles on the E16, occurring between the Bjørkhaugtunnelen and Sætretunnelen tunnels. Emergency services were alerted to the accident at approximately 17:30. All three individuals involved were transported to Haukeland University Hospital for treatment, according to police reports.
Incident details and emergency response
According to operations manager Morten Rebnord of the police, the incident occurred as a vehicle traveling north toward Vågsbotn struck a guardrail. The impact forced the car into the opposing lane, resulting in a head-on collision with a second vehicle. Tore Fanebust of the 110-emergency center noted the 70 km/h speed limit in the area, suggesting the vehicles were traveling at significant speed when the crash occurred.
Witness Silje Loftås, who arrived at the scene shortly after the collision, described seeing heavy smoke coming from one of the vehicles. She observed significant damage to both cars before emergency medical personnel arrived to begin treating the injured parties.
The E16 remained entirely closed to traffic for approximately 90 minutes following the accident, with authorities reopening the tunnels for normal travel at 19:00.
Traffic implications and local congestion
The closure of the E16 resulted in substantial traffic delays, with many drivers attempting to bypass the scene by using Peter Jebsens vei through Ytre Arna. Tom Erik Englaugstad of the Norwegian Public Roads Administration (Vegtrafikksentralen) advised against using this local route while the main road was closed, citing the risk of significant traffic gridlock in the residential area.
While the road has reopened, accidents of this nature often lead to follow-up investigations by traffic safety authorities to determine if infrastructure or signage contributed to the loss of vehicle control. The severity of the injuries reported by the police underscores the inherent risks associated with high-speed head-on collisions, even on roads with established speed limits.
What happens next
With the roadway now cleared, the primary focus for authorities will likely shift to the ongoing medical treatment of the three individuals at Haukeland University Hospital. Police investigators may continue to examine the scene and the vehicles to determine the specific circumstances that caused the initial vehicle to strike the guardrail. Drivers in the region may continue to encounter residual traffic delays as the flow returns to normal levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people were injured in the accident?
Three people were involved in the collision, two of whom are reported to be seriously injured.
Where did the collision take place?
The accident occurred on the E16, specifically between the Bjørkhaugtunnelen and Sætretunnelen tunnels.
Is the E16 currently open for traffic?
Yes, the tunnels were reopened for free passage at 19:00 following the initial closure.
Have you encountered unexpected traffic delays on the E16 corridor recently?
