A serious incident on one of Madrid’s streets has once again raised concerns about children’s safety on the capital’s roads. In the district of Hortaleza, home to numerous educational institutions, a 12-year-old girl was hospitalized with serious injuries after being hit by a car on a lane designated exclusively for buses. The incident has caused concern among parents and local residents, as it occurred near a school where hundreds of students pass daily.
According to El Pais, the accident happened around 14:20 on Niceto Alcalá Zamora street, near a traffic light-controlled pedestrian crossing. Initial reports indicate that the girl was crossing the bus lane when a car, which was not supposed to be on that section, was driving through. The collision caused multiple injuries to the child; however, she remained conscious until emergency services arrived.
Incident details
Samur-Protección Civil staff quickly arrived at the scene and provided first aid to the injured girl. After stabilizing her condition, she was urgently taken to hospital, where doctors continue to fight for her recovery. Madrid police have launched an investigation to establish all the circumstances of the accident and to find out why the car was on a lane reserved only for public transport.
Local residents note that the stretch of road near the school often becomes a hotspot for traffic violations. Despite the presence of traffic lights and markings, some drivers ignore restrictions, creating a danger for pedestrians, especially children. City officials have repeatedly discussed the need to strengthen control in such areas, but the incident once again highlighted the vulnerability of minors on the roads of the metropolis.
Response and aftermath
The incident sparked extensive discussions among parents and teachers, who are calling for stricter safety measures around schools. According to russpain.com, such cases prompt a review of traffic organization and the installation of additional control measures like violation detection cameras and physical barriers. Madrid authorities are considering new solutions to prevent similar incidents in the future.
As El Pais reports, the investigation is ongoing, with police reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses. Particular attention is being paid to whether all traffic rules were followed by both the driver and the pedestrian. The results of the inquiry are expected to provide grounds for possible changes in traffic management at this location.
Context and similar cases
In recent years, Madrid has seen several accidents involving children at pedestrian crossings and on bus lanes. In 2025, a similar incident occurred in the Chamartín district, where a student was injured after being hit by a car in a dedicated lane. At that time, authorities stepped up patrols and installed additional warning signs. In 2024, incidents involving minors were also reported in the Carabanchel district, leading to temporary traffic restrictions near schools. These events highlight the ongoing need to monitor and adapt urban infrastructure to protect the most vulnerable road users.
