Bus Collides with Electric Motorcycle at Busy Havana Intersection

A bus rear-ended an electric motorcycle on Monday at the traffic light of the intersection between Infanta and San Lázaro streets in Central Havana. The causes of the accident are still unknown.

A photo shared by Javier Ruiz, who reported the incident on the Facebook group Accidents Buses & Trucks, clearly shows how the bus struck the rear of the light vehicle, causing the seat to nearly stand upright.

Despite the shocking image, the source clarified in the comments section that the motorcyclist did not suffer significant injuries. He was projected onto the pavement and his body was not trapped between the two vehicles.

"A neighbor who witnessed the accident - because I live right there - told me in the afternoon that the motorcyclist was thrown onto the pavement but apparently without major consequences. The seat lifted and threw him over, preventing him from being crushed between the bus and the false tank (electric motorcycle)," detailed the source.

The same source indicated that the bus involved in the incident is state-owned, belonging to the National Institute of Hydraulic Resources (INRH).

Although the causes of the accident are unclear, several internet users suggested that since it happened at a traffic light, the bus driver's failure to maintain proper distance or speed was likely to blame.

Discussion on the Causes of the Accident

"There's no debate about it; the driver behind must maintain a safe distance and drive responsibly, being aware of the traffic conditions ahead," observed one commenter.

However, some pointed out that the motorcycle might be at fault for suddenly braking or cutting in front of the larger vehicle.

"Maybe the motorcyclist was riding in the middle of the street because they think they own the road and suddenly braked, causing the bus to hit them," speculated another commenter.

"If the motorcyclist slammed on the brakes, and these bikes usually stop within six meters at a speed of 40 km/h, the driver behind has no time to react. This happens because some people think all vehicles brake the same way," commented another user.

As of this writing, no further information has been released about the motorcyclist's condition or additional details about the accident.

Traffic accidents of all types have been relentless on Cuban roads since the beginning of the year, continuing the trend set in 2023. Last year, 729 people lost their lives in Cuba due to traffic accidents. Authorities recorded 8,556 traffic incidents that resulted in 5,938 injuries. Human error was responsible for 91% of these incidents, according to officials.