A truck nearly plunged off a bridge at kilometer 285 on the National Highway when a front tire unexpectedly blew out on the night of October 29.
The incident was highlighted in the Facebook group "ACCIDENTES BUSES & CAMIONES por más experiencia y menos víctimas!", where members shared photos showing the truck perched precariously on the bridge's edge and the remains of the burst tire.
Pedro Domínguez, who posted about the accident, explained that the blowout of the front right tire caused the loss of control over the truck. Fortunately, there were no human injuries, only material damage.
Photos from the scene depict the damaged cargo vehicle with its front end resting against the bridge barrier and the destroyed tire lying on the road.
Group members expressed relief at the driver's fate in the comments. "Thank God it was only material damage; the important thing is that they're safe and alive," one user noted, while others highlighted the dangers of that highway stretch, especially between Santa Clara and Sancti Spíritus, known for frequent accidents.
Many users also pointed to the poor technical conditions of vehicles and the deteriorating roads as factors exacerbating such incidents. "This happens when there are no resources; state trucks run with old tires, sometimes with the cords exposed. Many drivers have to buy them themselves to keep working," a group member commented, reflecting a widespread concern among Cuban drivers.
Other witnesses mentioned passing by the scene during the early hours and offering assistance to the driver. "Maybe it wasn't much, just a bottle of cold water, but thank God nothing happened to him," wrote one user, capturing the mix of solidarity and resignation with which Cubans often face such road incidents.
The accident, while narrowly avoiding tragedy, reignites the discussion about the deteriorating vehicle fleet and the precarious state of the National Highway, a crucial route for transporting goods and passengers across the island.
Understanding the National Highway's Challenges
What caused the truck to nearly fall off the bridge?
The truck nearly fell off the bridge due to a blowout of its front right tire, leading to a loss of control.
Why is the highway stretch between Santa Clara and Sancti Spíritus considered dangerous?
The stretch between Santa Clara and Sancti Spíritus is known for frequent accidents, partly due to poor road conditions and inadequate vehicle maintenance.
How do poor vehicle conditions contribute to accidents in Cuba?
Old and poorly maintained vehicles, often with worn-out tires, increase the risk of accidents as they are more prone to technical failures.