Imagine hitting a wall at just 50 kilometers per hour. Your car stops in an instant. But if you’re not buckled up, your body keeps moving at that same speed. For a 70-kilogram driver, this impact feels like falling from a three-story building. It’s a terrifying thought, but it’s the truth about road safety.
To tackle this, a major road safety campaign kicks off today, September 9. It’s called “Cinto-me Vivo,” which means “I Feel Alive,” highlighting the life-saving power of staying belted. This effort involves the National Road Safety Authority (ANSR), the National Republican Guard (GNR), and the Public Security Police (PSP).
Running until September 15, the “I Feel Alive” initiative aims to remind everyone: drivers and passengers alike. It’s all about using safety gear correctly. This campaign is a key part of the 2025 National Inspection Plan, a wider effort to make our roads safer.
The science is clear on why these simple actions matter. A properly fastened helmet, approved for use, cuts the risk of death in a crash by 40%. That’s a huge difference for motorcyclists. For those in cars, a seatbelt acts as your first line of defense.
Protecting our youngest passengers is even more critical. Using a child seat that fits the child’s weight and is approved for safety slashes the risk of serious injury by 60%. And for kids up to age four, a rear-facing child seat, combined with a seatbelt, can reduce the risk of severe injury or death by a stunning 90%. These aren’t just rules; they’re lifesavers for families.
These efforts involve a two-pronged approach. The ANSR will lead awareness events across the mainland and in the Azores and Madeira regions. Simultaneously, the GNR and PSP will conduct inspection operations.
These police checks will focus on busy roads and major access points. The goal is simple: reduce accidents and encourage everyone to adopt safer habits. They want to ensure proper use of all safety devices, from seatbelts to child seats.
Where to Expect Inspections
The ANSR’s awareness actions and police inspections will happen together at specific times and places. Here’s where authorities will be present:
- September 9 at 8:00 AM: EN13 – Mindelo, Vila do Conde (41.306487, -8.703161). Both ANSR and GNR will be there.
- September 10 at 8:00 AM: Rua Alvarinho Santos, Gondomar (41.14734, -8.54770). Look for ANSR and PSP teams.
- September 11 at 8:00 AM: Ribeirinha Street Roundabout – Santa Maria de Lamas (40.976250, -8.572833). This spot will have ANSR and GNR.
- September 12 at 10:00 AM: Avenida Inês de Castro (Lajes Roundabout), Coimbra (40.196856, -8.430873). You’ll see ANSR and PSP.
- September 15 at 8:00 AM: EN10-1/IC20 Roundabout – Costa da Caparica, Almada (38.646193, -9.233871). ANSR and GNR will be on site.
These efforts complement other ongoing road safety measures, including speed camera deployments. Staying informed and making safe choices keeps everyone safer on the road.