Foreigners Responsible for Up to 22% of 17,809 Traffic Violations Recorded in 2025
In Madeira, 22% of the 17,809 traffic violations registered so far in 2025 were committed by foreign drivers. The violations mainly involved poor parking. Over the last two years, the share of foreign drivers among all traffic offenders has varied between 10% and 22%, according to data from the Instituto de Mobilidade e Transportes Terrestres (IMT).
President João Pedro Sousa Rejects Idea That Foreign Drivers Are Major Road Offenders
João Pedro Sousa, President of the IMT, said he disagrees with the common perception that tourists or drivers of rental cars are the main offenders. He stated:
The data show that foreigners and rental cars are not the main offenders. We are talking about only 10% to 22% of total traffic violations (…) Therefore, I do not believe this is a problem overall.
João Pedro Sousa, President of the IMT, RTP Madeira
More Than 70% of Fines by Foreign Drivers Already Paid Voluntarily
Contrary to popular belief, most foreign drivers pay their fines. Sousa noted:
In 2024, 74% of fines issued to foreigners were paid voluntarily. This year, the number is already around 70%.
He further explained:
Tourists and foreign citizens are treated exactly like any other offender. Fines are collected, cases are processed, and the majority pay voluntarily.
Parking Problems Dominate Traffic Violations
Most traffic fines in Madeira are related to poor parking rather than reckless driving or other serious offenses. Sousa emphasized:
The perception that tourists do not pay fines does not match reality. Foreign drivers, often in rental cars, are not the main offenders on our roads.
The data suggest that enforcement focuses on standard traffic rules that apply to all drivers equally.
Source: RTP Madeira
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