Officials resolved a recent accident on the A-31, near the Rambla de Salinetes, a natural area straddling the municipalities of Novelda and Petrer. This spot is popular in spring and summer because of the clay baths and the healing properties of its sulphurous waters that emerge each season. The incident drew attention from locals and travelers alike who use the corridor as a gateway toward major destinations, including routes toward Alicante and Madrid.
The event occurred on a Monday around 6:30 p.m. when a truck driver lost control and the vehicle plunged from a height of six meters down the boulevard. The truck slid off the road, veered to the right, and descended the embankment while traveling in the direction from Alicante to Madrid. The impact halted traffic and set off a swift emergency response from multiple teams at the scene.
The load inside the truck affected the flow of water along the Rambla de Salinetes, partially blocking the drainage channel as the vehicle dragged through the area. It became a visible impediment to passage, drawing attention to the stability and safety of the route and prompting discussions about road conditions and the risks present at this crossroads during peak visiting hours.
The site quickly became a focal point for onlookers. The roadway’s disruptions required careful management to ensure other traffic could move safely around the scene while authorities conducted their assessment. The surrounding area—known for its natural beauty and spas—lends a sense of urgency to keep this route predictable for residents and visitors who rely on it for both daily travel and tourism-related activities.
The victim, a woman in her thirties, managed to exit the cabin despite visible distress and a limp. She was transported to Elda General University Hospital by ambulance for evaluation. Initial assessments suggested she did not suffer life-threatening injuries, though medical professionals conducted further checks to confirm her condition and to rule out any latent damage from the fall. The incident prompted a careful review of the vehicle’s condition and the effectiveness of the safety systems that were in place at the moment of impact.
The water crossing along the boulevard created a temporary bottleneck as the channel became obstructed by the truck and its cargo. Local authorities reported that potatoes were among the items the truck was carrying, which contributed to the blockage of the drainage flow and added to the complexity of clearing the scene. The extraction teams proceeded with caution to prevent further hazards and to restore normal water and traffic flow as soon as possible.
People who were in the saltwater baths at the time described a sudden, powerful tremor followed by a strong impact. Those nearby acted quickly, contacting police and emergency services to ensure a coordinated response. The rapid mobilization of responders helped to manage the situation, secure the area, and provide care to anyone in need. Eyewitnesses noted the importance of timely alerts and the role of on-site professionals in preventing additional injuries and facilitating a rapid, organized response.
Witnesses later shared reflections on the outcome, expressing relief that no one sustained serious injuries and acknowledging the effectiveness of the immediate response. The incident underscored the unpredictable nature of road accidents near popular natural sites and highlighted the need for ongoing safety measures and public awareness around travel in busy, scenic areas.