automatic train control system, which could have prevented both of them. At Jyväskylä, the system would have first warned the driver, then braked automatically before the switch, slowing the train to a safe speed. Deployment of the system had started in 1995, and it was hurried in the aftermath of the accidents. VR offered compensations to those involved in the accident, and VR Cargo cancelled a safety campaign that was started only a few days before. The accident caused major disturbances to Jyväskylä's road and rail traffic. The accident investigation board recommended the use of seatbelts in trains. VR implemented airplane-style seatbelts in three InterCity carriages during the year 1999, but finally decided against a wide-range deployment due to their impracticality. The surviving engineer was sued on 25 January 2000 for causing a traffic hazard, negligent homicide and negligent bodily injury. He was acquitted during the same year by the Jyväskylä District Court. The decision was upheld in November 2001 by the Vaasa Court of Appeal, freeing him from charges. See also Finnish railway signalling Similar accidents Jokela rail accident – overspeed through turnout Brühl train disaster – overspeed through turnout Waterfall rail accident – overspeed through sharp curve References Literature External links Railway accidents in 1998 Derailments in Finland 1998 in Finland Transport in Jyväskylä Accidents and incidents involving VR Group March 1998 events in Europe