A dramatic collision occurred this Saturday afternoon on Havana's Vía Blanca, reportedly resulting in several injuries. Social media images depict the crash involving two cars, with one vehicle's windshield astonishingly shattered. The incident took place near the Puente de los Elevados, as noted by Facebook user Yuriel Fernández.
“The cause of the collision remains unknown, but there are injured individuals; hopefully, they will recover soon,” Fernández mentioned. According to eyewitness accounts shared on the Facebook page La Tijera, "a young woman was lying on the road without vital signs while SIUM paramedics attempted to revive her. Other injured parties were transported by ambulance to the Miguel Enríquez Hospital in the 10 de Octubre municipality."
Current Accident Statistics in Cuba
The latest report from the National Commission of Road Safety, as of the end of May 2025, reveals the following figures:
- Reported accidents: 3,035, showing a decrease compared to the previous year.
- Injured individuals: 2,670, also on the decline.
- Fatalities: 290, which, unfortunately, marks an increase.
Leading causes include driver distraction, right-of-way violations, speeding, technical failures, and alcohol consumption. Pedestrians account for 23% of the fatalities, making it the deadliest type of accident, with one fatality every five incidents. There has been a rise in accidents involving vulnerable vehicles such as motorcycles, mopeds, bicycles, and bicitaxis, with a notable increase in both deaths and injuries in these categories.
Between January and May, 11 severe accidents were reported, resulting in 30 deaths and 130 injuries.
Understanding Road Safety Challenges in Cuba
What are the main causes of road accidents in Cuba?
The primary causes of road accidents in Cuba include driver distraction, right-of-way violations, excessive speed, technical failures, and alcohol consumption.
How have accident statistics changed in recent years in Cuba?
While the number of reported accidents and injuries has decreased, fatalities have unfortunately increased. Vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians and those using motorcycles and bicycles, are particularly at risk.
What measures are being taken to improve road safety in Cuba?
Efforts to improve road safety in Cuba focus on addressing the main causes of accidents, such as enforcing traffic laws more strictly, improving road conditions, and raising public awareness about safe driving practices.