64-year-old dies after accident on Turracher Höhe: Car sinks into lake

Among them were divers from Carinthia, who were able to recover the vehicle and the 64-year-old from the water. Despite all efforts, however, help came too late. The man succumbed to his injuries at the scene of the accident.

According to police, it is assumed that the 64-year-old was alone in the vehicle. There are no indications at this time of other persons involved or of third-party fault. The exact circumstances that led to the car leaving the B95 are the subject of further investigation.

Accident site and route

The Turracher Höhe stretches at roughly 1,760 meters above sea level and forms the border between the federal states of Carinthia and Styria. The B95, also known as Turracher Straße, is an important connection between the two regions and runs directly past Lake Turrach. In the summer months there is heavy excursion traffic, making accidents on this particularly winding and partially difficult-to-see stretch of road a recurring challenge for emergency services.

In addition to the RK1 rescue helicopter, the Carinthia diving group, the local fire department, police, and the ambulance service were also deployed. The recovery and cleanup operations at Lake Turrach lasted several hours; the affected section of the B95 was closed for the duration of the operation.

Investigation into the cause of the accident

The next of kin of the deceased were informed by police and cared for by a crisis intervention team. The 64-year-old was a man from the district of Spittal an der Drau who lived in the region. Police asked that speculation about the cause of the accident be avoided while the investigation has not yet been completed.

According to police, no larger cordons or traffic disruptions remained at the accident site the day after the incident. Lake Turrach itself, however, remained closed for the time being for the ongoing investigation and the final recovery of the vehicle. Divers from the Carinthian operational unit were expected to raise the wreck in the coming days.

Note from the emergency services

The Klagenfurt public prosecutor's office ordered an expert opinion to clarify the exact cause of the accident. Among other things, it is to be examined whether health problems of the driver may have played a role. A preliminary autopsy report was not available as of editorial deadline.

Authorities and rescue organizations on the Turracher Höhe emphasized in the meantime how important it is to observe speed limits on Carinthia's and Styria's mountain roads and to take weather conditions into account. Even on seemingly easy stretches of road, a single moment of inattention can be enough to cause a vehicle to leave the road.