Eleven Traffic Deaths in 2024 Shape a Day of Public Mourning
Mother Karina Gouveia held a bouquet of flowers on Sunday, each one symbolizing a life lost on Madeira’s roads. One flower represented her daughter, Sara. She chose not to speak to reporters, but her silence showed the depth of her loss.
The gathering took place on the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims. So far this year, 11 people have died in road traffic accidents across Madeira, including five motorcyclists.
Government Prepares 2025 Plan With New Fixed Speed-Control Radars
Regional officials said they are working on a new road safety prevention plan to be presented next year. The plan includes several measures now under study, such as
stronger roadside protections
revised speed limits
introduction of fixed speed-control radars
On certain parts of the expressway, Pedro Rodrigues said they expect to keep current limits but place radars at points with a higher number of recorded accidents. They also mentioned additional police enforcement to improve safety.
The document is still being prepared, but it foresees new speed limits in certain areas, the installation of fixed speed cameras on roads and concessioned routes, and also the identification of accident black spots on Madeira’s roads.
Accidents Linked to Speed, Alcohol and Driver Inattention
Authorities noted that some fatal crashes this year were run-offs, often tied to high speed. Others involved alcohol or moments of inattention. While road conditions or mechanical issues can play a role, most crashes are because of from human error.
Motorcycling Association Requests Road Safety Observatory With Full Data
The Madeira Motorcycling Association said it supports stronger controls but wants a permanent Road Safety Observatory to collect and share complete accident data.
“Many times people say it could be because of road conditions or mechanical failures,” the association stated. “The main failure is human. We are the ones who need to be conscious of what we are doing.”
To honor victims, the association organized a slow motorcycle procession. Over the past three years, Madeira has recorded 36 deaths and 240 people seriously injured in traffic accidents.
Source: RTP Madeira
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