A traffic accident unfolded on Monday night on Cuba's National Highway, commonly referred to as "Ocho Vías," as a truck overturned and was subsequently hit by a jeep, according to reports from the Facebook group "Accidentes Buses & Camiones." The crash resulted in the closure of both directions of the highway, causing significant traffic congestion. As of now, there have been no reports of fatalities or serious injuries, although the authorities have yet to release an official statement clarifying the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Footage from the scene captured a crowd of bystanders and police officers surrounding the accident site, noting that the jeep was carrying several passengers. The condition of the jeep's occupants and the truck driver remains unknown.
Recurring Accidents on Cuba's Roads
This accident is part of a concerning trend involving trucks on the National Highway in recent months. Last December, a collision between a truck and a jeep at the entrance to Granma province left one driver with minor injuries. Similarly, in January 2024, at least three individuals lost their lives, and several others were injured after a tourist car collided with a truck loaded with oranges in Sancti Spíritus province.
Poor Road Conditions Contributing to Accidents
The condition of Cuban roads, plagued by potholes and inadequate signage, has been cited as a contributing factor in many such accidents. In April 2024, a Toyota jeep overturned after hitting a pothole on the National Highway near the Aguada de Pasajeros checkpoint in Cienfuegos province. Cuban authorities acknowledged in 2019 that 76% of the country's over 71,000 kilometers of roads were in fair or poor condition, with little to no improvement seen since then.
An in-depth investigation into Monday's accident is anticipated to ascertain the causes and help prevent similar incidents in the future.
Common Questions About Traffic Accidents in Cuba
What are the main causes of traffic accidents in Cuba?
Poor road conditions, including potholes and inadequate signage, along with driver negligence, are major contributing factors to traffic accidents in Cuba.
How are authorities addressing road safety issues in Cuba?
Cuban authorities have acknowledged the poor state of the roads and are expected to conduct thorough investigations into accidents to improve safety measures, although progress has been limited.