Lisbon Elevador da Glória accident sparks indemnity dispute

The insurer Fidelidade is contesting a compensation claim of approximately one million euros requested by the family of Ana Paula Lopes, one of the 16 people killed in the Elevador da Glória derailment in Lisbon. The family is seeking 1.05 million euros from Carris, Fidelidade, and MNTC, including 125,000 euros for loss of life. Fidelidade has argued in court that the requested amount is disproportionate, citing previous judicial decisions where death indemnities ranged between 50,000 and 90,000 euros.

In legal filings, Fidelidade stated that the elevator was not a “highly reliable” means of transport and suggested the accident was not entirely unpredictable due to previous incidents since 2018. The insurer also noted the brief duration of the victim's suffering, estimating the entire event lasted only seconds. In response to public criticism, Fidelidade categorically rejected claims that it is refusing to indemnify victims, stating it remains committed to fair compensation and that certain legal expressions may have caused additional suffering to the families.

Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas described the insurer's legal arguments as “shameful” and “lamentable.” Meanwhile, the Lisbon Municipal Assembly has formed a special commission to investigate the September 2025 tragedy. The commission plans to begin hearings with the Lisbon City Council's mobility official and the administration of Carris to clarify responsibilities and maintenance oversight.