A dramatic traffic accident took place on Saturday afternoon in Las Guásimas, a district of Arroyo Naranjo in Havana, resulting in significant property damage and injuring a motorcyclist whose current condition remains undisclosed. Eyewitnesses and social media reports indicate that the crash occurred when a private vehicle, a Hyundai Palisade (license plate P271494), one of the most advanced models from the South Korean manufacturer present in Cuba, allegedly failed to obey a "Stop" sign and collided head-on with a motorcycle traveling along the main road.
Photos shared on Facebook by user Alexander Rios Cruz reveal the front of the large vehicle severely damaged as a result of the collision, while the motorcycle lay on the pavement with extensive structural damage. Debris from both the car and the motorcycle, including plastic and metal pieces, littered the street.
The accident quickly drew a crowd of local residents who gathered at the scene to witness the aftermath and assist the injured motorcyclist. However, there have been no official statements released yet regarding the motorcyclist's identity or health status.
The Rising Danger of Cuban Roads
This incident highlights a growing concern where motorcycles and mopeds are frequently involved in road accidents throughout Cuba. According to a recent report by the PNR's Specialized Traffic Unit, there has been an uptick in incidents involving these vehicles, often driven by unlicensed operators, including minors. The poor state of Cuban roads, marked by potholes and inadequate signage, exacerbates driving hazards. In such an environment, the presence of modern, high-powered vehicles like the Hyundai Palisade, especially when driven recklessly, further elevates the risk of dangerous driving episodes.
Although authorities have yet to release an official account of the Las Guásimas accident, locals are urging for enhanced traffic safety measures in a municipality plagued by deteriorating infrastructure and a surge of imported modern cars and motorcycles.
From Vintage Cars to Modern Vehicles: The Collision Trend in Havana
This recent crash is not an isolated event but part of a series of road incidents in Havana, reflecting a blend of poorly maintained roads, insufficient signage, and modern vehicles being driven recklessly. A previous notable incident occurred on August 9, 2025, when a dramatic collision between two modern cars at the capital's entrance caused a social media stir and led to traffic disruptions in the area.
Earlier, in January of the same year, a vintage "almendrón" collided with a modern car on a busy Havana street, again highlighting the risks of mixing old and high-powered vehicles on dilapidated roads. In June 2024, a diplomatic car and a military vehicle were involved in a prominent accident in the Vedado district, reigniting debates about driver responsibility in densely trafficked urban areas.
Just weeks before, in May 2024, a collision involving a modern SUV, a Volga, and a white car resulted in dramatic images of road destruction. In April 2024, a modern vehicle had also collided with an "almendrón" at another dangerous intersection in Vedado, underscoring the vulnerability of traffic in the capital, where ineffective control and poor infrastructure contribute to the recurrence of such events.
Understanding Traffic Safety Challenges in Cuba
Why are motorcycles frequently involved in accidents in Cuba?
Motorcycles are often involved in accidents due to poor road conditions, lack of proper signage, and a significant number of unlicensed or young drivers navigating these vehicles.
What impact does infrastructure have on traffic safety in Cuba?
Deteriorating infrastructure, including damaged roads and inadequate traffic signals, significantly increases the danger for drivers and contributes to the frequency of accidents.
How do modern vehicles affect road safety in Havana?
Modern vehicles, particularly when driven irresponsibly, can exacerbate road safety issues due to their high power and speed, which, combined with poor road conditions, lead to more severe accidents.