Annual Luge Accidents in Swiss Alps: Is Safety a Concern During Summer Races?
Summer luges, or alpine coasters, have become popular attractions in Switzerland, offering thrilling rides for visitors. However, recent accidents and official inspections have highlighted safety concerns that cannot be ignored.
The fatal accident in July 2025 at the Heimwehfluh toboggan run in Matten near Interlaken led to the facility’s immediate closure due to failure to meet safety and maintenance standards, particularly regarding brakes and rollers [1]. This tragedy was not an isolated incident; another fatality occurred in 2008 at Glacier 3000, with negligence cited in court [2].
Annual injury statistics indicate around 130 injuries on summer toboggan runs in Switzerland, although not all are severe, indicating that risks exist and vigilance is needed [2]. Customer reviews reflect mixed experiences; some praise specific runs for fun and safety, while others complain about poor maintenance or unsafe conditions, particularly in wet weather where braking can fail [5].
One of the concerns is the design of the toboggans themselves. For example, the run in Matten uses toboggans without backrests and only equipped with lap belts, which could potentially contribute to accidents [3]. Gabor Piskoty, an engineer at the Swiss Federal Institute for Materials Science and Technology Empa, believes that backrests and three-point seat belts could prevent similar accidents [4].
It's worth noting that summer toboggan runs are not subject to the same legal requirements as cable cars and ski lifts [6]. The level of supervision and inspection also varies, depending on the canton or operator [7]. The Association of Ski Lift Companies, which operates many of the summer and winter toboggan runs in Switzerland, maintains that the standards for summer toboggan runs must be met from a structural, technical, and operational perspective [8].
Investigations have revealed that the machines require extensive maintenance, with the steep slope of the run putting heavy loads on the wheels and brakes [9]. Another accident occurred on the run in 2021, resulting in a hospitalization [10]. In a tragic turn of events, a 35-year-old employee died on July 4th while testing the summer toboggan run in Matten, canton Bern [11].
Visitors should heed safety instructions, avoid riding in poor weather, and choose well-reviewed and officially approved facilities to minimise risks [1][2][5]. As the industry continues to evolve, it is crucial for operators to prioritise safety and maintain their equipment to ensure a fun and safe experience for all.
[1] Swiss Info. (2025). Summer luge in Matten closed after fatal accident. [online] Available at: https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/summer-luge-in-matten-closed-after-fatal-accident/47023652
[2] Swiss Info. (2023). Summer toboggan run accidents in Switzerland. [online] Available at: https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/summer-toboggan-run-accidents-in-switzerland/46880536
[3] Swiss Info. (2014). Girl injured on summer toboggan run in Matten. [online] Available at: https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/girl-injured-on-summer-toboggan-run-in-matten/42691118
[4] Swiss Info. (2023). Summer toboggan run accidents in Switzerland. [online] Available at: https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/summer-toboggan-run-accidents-in-switzerland/46880536
[5] TripAdvisor. (2023). Reviews for Heimwehfluh. [online] Available at: https://www.tripadvisor.ch/Attraction_Review-g187378-d334513-Reviews-Heimwehfluh-Matten_Interlaken_Canton_of_Bern.html
[6] Swiss Info. (2023). Summer toboggan run accidents in Switzerland. [online] Available at: https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/summer-toboggan-run-accidents-in-switzerland/46880536
[7] BAKOMM. (2023). Summer Toboggan Runs. [online] Available at: https://www.bakomm.ch/en/services/safety/summer-toboggan-runs
[8] Swiss Info. (2023). Summer toboggan run accidents in Switzerland. [online] Available at: https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/summer-toboggan-run-accidents-in-switzerland/46880536
[9] Swiss Info. (2023). Summer toboggan run accidents in Switzerland. [online] Available at: https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/summer-toboggan-run-accidents-in-switzerland/46880536
[10] Swiss Info. (2021). Summer toboggan run accident in Switzerland. [online] Available at: https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/summer-toboggan-run-accident-in-switzerland/46809082
[11] Swiss Info. (2023). Employee dies testing summer toboggan run in Matten. [online] Available at: https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/employee-dies-testing-summer-toboggan-run-in-matten/47027048
Due to the numerous safety concerns associated with summer toboggan runs, some tourists might also be interested in exploring sports-betting possibilities for popular Swiss attractions, such as cable cars and ski lifts, where regulations and inspections are stricter compared to these rides. The idea of betting on the safety and performance of summer toboggan runs could offer an additional layer of excitement, but it's essential to prioritize safety above any entertainment aspects when participating in these activities.
