In a remarkable display of skill and quick thinking, two bus drivers from the National Bus Company averted a potential disaster early Sunday morning. The drivers successfully prevented their vehicle from overturning following a technical failure.
The incident occurred when bus number 1694, en route from Las Tunas to Havana, experienced a malfunction in one of its front tires. Thanks to the swift actions of the driver and co-driver, a serious accident was avoided, according to a statement released by the company.
The breakdown took place at kilometer 80 on the National Highway. The bus had departed Las Tunas at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, and more than six hours into the journey, the front tire began to fail. The bus crew, comprised of Rafael Bello Acosta and Rolando Rodríguez Peña, executed a maneuver that prevented the bus from overturning.
Alexander Torres, the director of the Tunera transport company, informed the press that a protocol was immediately activated to transfer passengers, allowing them to continue their journey to Havana. Authorities noted that the vehicle underwent the required technical inspection before departure, and no defects were found.
Despite frequent reports of accidents, a recent trend has shown a decrease in incidents. However, April saw an increase in fatalities compared to the previous year, even as the number of overall accidents declined. The official newspaper Granma reported that by the end of April, there were 2,377 road accidents, marking a reduction of 150 cases compared to April 2024. Despite this, the accidents were more deadly.
Colonel Roberto Rodríguez Fernández, head of the Specialized Traffic Authority, explained that human error was a factor in 91% of these accidents. Common causes include failing to maintain control of the vehicle, ignoring traffic signals, improper overtaking, and not yielding to pedestrians.
The deterioration of vehicles and poor road conditions are also significant contributors to accidents. However, the government rarely acknowledges or addresses these structural issues, leaving them unresolved.
Understanding Road Safety Challenges in Cuba
What actions did the bus crew take to prevent the accident?
The bus crew, consisting of Rafael Bello Acosta and Rolando Rodríguez Peña, quickly maneuvered the vehicle to prevent it from overturning after a front tire malfunction.
What contributed to the increase in fatalities despite fewer accidents in April?
Although the number of accidents decreased, the severity of incidents increased, leading to more fatalities. Human error and poor road conditions are key factors.
How do structural issues affect road safety in Cuba?
The deterioration of the vehicle fleet and inadequate road maintenance contribute significantly to accident rates, yet these issues remain largely unaddressed by the authorities.