Family car over cliff near Sant Elm: 18-year-old drove without license and insurance

Car plunges down cliff at Sant Elm: young driver, big scare

Early this afternoon a small crowd of onlookers gathered in Sant Elm: on Carrer de Mossèn Joan Ensenyat, not far from the beach, a Toyota lay half in the bushes after a drop of about three meters. Witnesses alerted emergency services around 2:50 pm after the vehicle rolled down the embankment.

Rescue teams quickly on scene – police investigate

Minutes later an ambulance and patrols of the Policía Local from Andratx arrived. Paramedics examined the young driver, who fortunately did not suffer any serious visible injuries; more detailed medical information was not initially available. A cool sea breeze blew and bystanders spoke more in whispers than out loud.

The unusual aspect of the operation: The man, who will turn 19 in a few weeks, stated he was driving without a license. The car is registered in Germany but apparently deregistered. Officers were initially unable to confirm insurance cover and technical inspection sticker.

"You often see holidaymakers at the wheel here, but something like this..." said a resident walking her dog by the church. It sounds like an everyday scene, except this time a cliff was involved. The driver claimed the vehicle belongs to a relative — the police are currently checking who actually owns the car.

Open questions: Why did the teenager drive and how did the crash happen?

It is still unclear exactly how the vehicle slipped: was there a mistake while reversing, a technical problem, or unsafe driving? Because the vehicle had German plates, checking MOT and insurance is more complicated, say authorities.

For residents the matter remains unpleasant — not only because of the incident itself, but because of questions about control of vehicles with foreign registration. The Guardia Civil or traffic authority could take further steps if violations are confirmed.

We will follow up and report as soon as more information on injuries or possible charges becomes available.