Over 50 injured in Barcelona bus collision

On Monday, March 3, a serious collision involving two tourist coaches occurred on Barcelona’s Avinguda Diagonal. The incident resulted in at least 51 injuries, with four individuals in critical condition. The crash occurred around 3.00 pm when one coach, carrying Italian students, rear-ended another stationary bus at a bus stop.

The impact caused the stationary bus to collide with a tree and a lamppost, also striking several pedestrians. 

Emergency response

Emergency services responded promptly, deploying 19 ambulances and 10 fire brigade units to the scene. One individual was trapped between the two vehicles and required over an hour to be extricated by firefighters. The injured were transported to various hospitals in Barcelona, including Hospital Clínic, Hospital de Sant Pau, and Hospital del Mar. ​

Passengers and nationalities

The stationary bus was transporting cruise passengers scheduled to embark on the Costa Toscana later that day. The moving coach carried approximately 50 Italian students and teachers visiting from Lloret de Mar. Among the injured were British, German, and Italian tourists. 

Traffic disruptions

The accident led to significant traffic disruptions on Avinguda Diagonal, a major thoroughfare in Barcelona. Authorities worked to remove the damaged vehicles and clear the roadway, with normal traffic flow resuming later in the evening. ​

Investigation underway

Local authorities have initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the collision. Both drivers underwent alcohol and drug testing, with the results returning negative. Furthermore, the incident coincided with heavy rainfall in the area, which may have contributed to the accident. ​

This tragic event has raised concerns about road safety in urban areas, particularly involving large vehicles transporting tourists. Authorities are expected to review safety protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Also read: Concern among tour guides after bus crash in Mallorca