On TikTok, Cuban user @yasny_brave posted a candid and humorous video detailing the scenarios that still make her anxious when driving in the United States. Her story resonated with many, triggering numerous reactions from people who saw themselves in her words.
Some of the most nerve-wracking situations she highlights include the roar of sports cars like Chargers or Challengers stopping beside her, crossing an intersection without the traffic light arrow in her favor, driving near heavily-loaded trucks or pickups, and the anxiety of crossing train tracks when the warning lights start flashing.
The comments on her video reveal a strong collective identification. Many users shared their own fears: from GPS errors on the highway to the stress of seeing a patrol car or ambulance behind them, or a school bus's sudden stop sign. Comments like "I feel you, girl," "You're not alone," "I experience the same," and "I thought it was just me" are commonly echoed.
This type of content highlights the adaptation challenges many Cuban immigrants face as they adjust to the American lifestyle, where traffic, rules, and driving intensity can be overwhelming.
Florida, especially Miami, frequently appears in studies about risky driving. A recent report cited by NBC Miami and conducted by the app Life360 indicates that five out of the eight U.S. metropolitan areas most prone to accidents are in Florida, with Miami and Fort Lauderdale leading the list. Sudden accelerations, harsh braking, and distracted driving are among the most common practices.
Other Cuban content creators have approached this topic from various angles. TikToker @yandrygarciavlog described driving in Miami as "a high-risk sport," while Spanish user @ramonteli criticized the ease of obtaining a driver's license in Florida, sparking a wide-ranging debate on social media.
In another recent post, a Cuban shared his first driving experience in the U.S., highlighting the mix of nerves and excitement that accompanies this significant milestone for many immigrants.
The video by @yasny_brave captures a shared immigrant experience: the journey to learning to drive—and feeling safe—within the challenging and unfamiliar environment of American roads.
Driving Challenges for Cuban Immigrants in the U.S.
What are common driving anxieties for Cuban immigrants in the U.S.?
Common anxieties include the noise of sports cars, crossing intersections without clear signals, navigating near large vehicles, and dealing with train crossings when signals start flashing.
Why is driving in Florida considered risky?
Florida, especially Miami, is known for risky driving due to sudden accelerations, harsh braking, and distracted driving. It ranks high in accident-prone metropolitan areas.
How do Cuban immigrants express their driving fears?
Cuban immigrants often share their driving fears through social media platforms like TikTok, creating a space for community support and shared experiences.