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Anyone affected by a road accident in Spain now has a free dedicated helpline to turn to, and it's available in English. From this Thursday April 23, dialling 018 connects callers to a team of psychology, social work and legal professionals specialising in road accidents, offering guidance and support in 50 languages, 365 days a year between 8am and 9pm.

 

The service was launched by Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska alongside DGT Director General Pere Navarro, and has been welcomed by victims' associations who have been pushing for exactly this kind of helpline for more than 20 years.

 

It's accessible to people with disabilities and is also reachable via WhatsApp on 645 713 823, by email at victimastrafico@dgt.es or through the DGT website.

 

It's worth being clear about what 018 is and isn't. It's not an emergency number and doesn't replace 112. It's designed for the aftermath of an accident, when victims and their families are trying to navigate the psychological, legal and administrative fallout, including police reports, compensation claims, trauma, grief and disability. In serious cases, the team can carry out periodic follow-ups for up to a year after the incident, with the caller's consent.

 

According to Mr Marlaska, telephone support at that stage reduces real barriers like fear, geographical distance and simply not knowing what help is available or where to find it. The helpline can also point callers towards the most appropriate local victims' associations based on their circumstances and location.

 

Jeanne Picard, secretary of Stop Accidents, was among the victims' association representatives at the launch. Visibly emotional, she said the day had finally arrived after decades of campaigning, adding that the pain of those left behind by road accidents simply can't be put into words.

 

Ana Novella, the association's president, stepped in when Ms Picard was unable to continue, telling those present that "when this happens to you, you're in shock, and this 018 helpline will help and guide you."