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Multiple Traffic Incidents Disrupt Madeira's Roads on January 4, 2026

Madeira GuideMadeira Guide
January 4, 2026
4 min read

A series of traffic incidents on Madeira's roads on January 4, 2026, caused multiple injuries and required emergency response from local firefighting units. The events highlight ongoing challenges in road safety on the island.

On January 4, 2026, Madeira witnessed a series of traffic-related incidents that resulted in several injuries and significant disruption across the island's roads. The incidents called for urgent responses from local fire departments, underscoring the ongoing challenges of road safety in the region.

Accident Near Água de Pena

In the late afternoon, a collision between two cars occurred near the Água de Pena roundabout, in the direction from Santa Cruz to Machico. The Municipal Firefighters of Machico were dispatched with two ambulances and a rescue vehicle, involving eight personnel in the operation. The accident resulted in minor injuries to a 75-year-old woman and a 20-year-old man, both of whom were able to exit their vehicles independently and were later taken to the Machico Health Center. The elderly woman required further care at the Dr. Nélio Mendonça Hospital.

Early Morning Collision Near Caniço de Baixo

Earlier that day, around 1:00 AM, a serious accident involving three cars occurred just after the Caniço de Baixo exit on the via rápida, heading towards Santa Cruz. This incident involved the Madeiran Volunteer Firefighters and the Sapadores Firefighters of Santa Cruz. Three individuals were injured, including a man in his 30s who was transported to the Dr. Nélio Mendonça Hospital for treatment.

Single Vehicle Incident in Ribeira da Alforra

A separate incident took place at approximately 11:30 AM in the Ribeira da Alforra area, where a car veered off the road on the via rápida between Ribeira Brava and Funchal. The driver, a 27-year-old woman, sustained injuries to her chest and back but managed to exit the vehicle on her own. She was subsequently treated and transported to the Dr. Nélio Mendonça Hospital.

Health Emergency in Machico

Adding to the day's emergencies, a man in his 50s experienced a health crisis while inside his car near the Machico bus station. The Machico Municipal Firefighters responded promptly, and the man was taken to the Dr. Nélio Mendonça Hospital for further evaluation.

These incidents highlight the critical need for heightened road safety measures and emergency preparedness on Madeira Island. The quick response of the local firefighting units played a vital role in ensuring that all affected individuals received timely medical care.

Sources

Madeira Guide

Madeira Guide

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