Ambulance Collision in Salvaterra de Magos Results in Multiple Injuries

Tragic Day on EN 118: Ambulance Crash Injures Four, Follows Earlier Fatal Collision

MARINHAIS, PORTUGAL – A devastating day unfolded on the EN 118 in the Santarém district, marked by two separate, serious accidents within a short span. The most recent incident involved a collision between an INEM ambulance and a civilian vehicle, resulting in four serious injuries.The INEM ambulance, dispatched from Salvaterra de Magos to assist an elderly woman in Glória do Ribatejo, was en route when the accident occurred in Marinhais at approximately 4:24 PM. Reports confirm that two INEM crew members and two civilians sustained serious injuries and were transported to Santarém Hospital. Emergency response teams from Salvaterra de Magos,Benavente,and Almeirim,along with personnel from Infraestruturas de Portugal and the GNR,totaling 25 individuals and ten vehicles,attended the scene.

This latest tragedy follows an earlier fatal accident on the same stretch of road, EN 118, in Porto Alto, Benavente. That collision, occurring just before 4 PM, involved a heavy goods vehicle and two lighter vehicles, claiming the lives of two individuals and leaving two others injured. Over 30 firefighters from Samora Correia and Alcochete,along with GNR and INEM,including two VMER units,responded to the scene.

evergreen Insight:

The EN 118,a vital artery connecting communities,has tragically become a symbol of road safety concerns. The stark reality of these consecutive accidents underscores the inherent risks faced by emergency service personnel and the public alike. This dual incident serves as a somber reminder of the human cost of road fatalities and the critical importance of vigilance, infrastructure safety, and the dedication of first responders who navigate hazardous conditions to save lives. The focus now shifts to understanding the contributing factors of both incidents and implementing measures to prevent future occurrences on this often heavily trafficked route.

What legal options are available too the occupants of the passenger vehicle for pursuing a personal injury claim in Portugal?

Incident Overview: Salvaterra de Magos Crash

On July 18, 2025, a serious traffic collision involving an ambulance occurred in Salvaterra de Magos, Portugal. initial reports indicate multiple injuries, impacting both ambulance personnel and occupants of a secondary vehicle – a reported passenger vehicle. Emergency services,including additional ambulances,fire crews,and the GNR (Guarda Nacional Republicana – Portugal’s national republican guard),were dispatched to the scene immediately following the incident. The location of the crash has been identified as a rural stretch of EN118, known for its winding roads and moderate traffic volume.

Details of the Collision & Reported Injuries

The collision appears to have been a side-impact, with the ambulance reportedly traveling with lights and sirens activated at the time of the incident. While the exact circumstances leading to the crash are still under inquiry, preliminary findings suggest potential factors include:

Speeding: Investigation into the speed of both vehicles is underway.

Road Conditions: The road surface was dry at the time of the accident, but visibility may have been affected by the time of day.

Driver Error: Possible driver distraction or misjudgment is being examined.

reported injuries include:

Ambulance Personnel: Two paramedics sustained moderate injuries, including a suspected broken arm and concussion. both were transported to Hospital de Santarém.

Passenger Vehicle Occupants: The driver and a passenger in the secondary vehicle suffered serious injuries. The driver sustained a head trauma, and the passenger a fractured leg. They are currently receiving treatment at the same hospital.

Patient Transport: The patient being transported in the ambulance at the time of the collision sustained minor injuries and is stable. They were transferred to a different ambulance and continued their journey to the hospital.

Emergency Response & Road Closure

The immediate aftermath of the ambulance crash saw a important emergency response.

First Responders: Local firefighters were first on the scene, securing the area and providing initial medical assistance.

Air Ambulance Deployment: Due to the severity of the injuries, an air ambulance was requested to facilitate rapid transport to a specialized trauma center. However, it was determined that road transport was sufficient given the proximity of Hospital de Santarém.

Traffic Management: EN118 was closed in both directions for approximately four hours while emergency crews worked to clear the scene and investigators gathered evidence. Traffic was diverted through alternative routes, causing significant delays for commuters.

Investigation & Potential Causes

The GNR is leading the investigation into the cause of the collision. Key areas of focus include:

Vehicle Maintenance Records: A thorough inspection of both vehicles is being conducted to rule out any mechanical failures.

Witness Statements: Authorities are actively seeking witnesses who may have observed the events leading up to the crash.

Data Recorder Analysis: Data from the ambulance’s onboard data recorder will be analyzed to determine speed, braking patterns, and other critical facts.

Review of Ambulance Protocols: The incident will prompt a review of existing ambulance protocols regarding emergency vehicle operation and safety procedures.

Legal Considerations & Claims process

Following a collision involving an emergency vehicle, several legal considerations arise.

Liability: Determining liability will be a complex process, potentially involving investigations into negligence, adherence to emergency vehicle operation guidelines, and road conditions.

Insurance Claims: Individuals injured in the crash have the right to file insurance claims to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Legal portrayal: It is highly recommended that all parties involved seek legal counsel to protect their rights and navigate the claims process. Specialized personal injury lawyers with experience in traffic accidents and emergency vehicle collisions are best suited to handle these cases.

Ambulance Safety & best Practices

This incident underscores the importance of ambulance safety and adherence to best practices.

Defensive Driving Training: Regular defensive driving training for ambulance personnel is crucial to enhance their skills in navigating challenging road conditions and avoiding collisions.

Emergency Vehicle Operation Courses (EVOC): EVOC training focuses specifically on the unique demands of operating emergency vehicles,including safe pursuit techniques and risk management.

Technology Integration: Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and collision avoidance technologies can definitely help mitigate risks and improve safety.

Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating the public about how to safely interact with emergency vehicles on the road is essential. This includes yielding the right-of-way and being aware of their surroundings.

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