On the morning of Saturday, January 18, a traffic accident resulted in seven individuals being injured on the 334th kilometer of the National Highway, near the town of Neiva, in the Cabaiguán municipality of Sancti Spíritus. The mishap involved a mass transport vehicle and was triggered by a tire blowout, according to authorities.
The blowout caused the driver to lose control, ultimately leading the vehicle to crash into a tree adjacent to the road. This was confirmed by Lieutenant Naya Aranda Díaz of the Revolutionary National Police (PNR) to the state-run media Escambray.
The injured, hailing from the provinces of Villa Clara, Santiago de Cuba, and Cienfuegos, were taken to the Camilo Cienfuegos Provincial General Hospital in Sancti Spíritus. Dr. Aliosky Polo Santana, the hospital's director, stated that those hurt sustained multiple traumas, but fortunately, none are in life-threatening condition.
The hospital has initiated emergency protocols and maintains continuous communication with the families of the injured, ensuring they receive proper medical attention and monitoring their progress, according to official reports.
This incident is part of a series of similar accidents in Cuba in recent months, where factors like deteriorating roads and the poor technical condition of vehicles often play a significant role in these tragedies.
In April 2024, a bus from the Provincial Transport Company of Havana experienced a front tire blowout, causing it to veer off the road in Alturas de Boca Ciega. Thankfully, no fatalities were reported in that incident.
Similarly, in February 2024, a truck used for passenger transport in Ciego de Ávila was involved in an accident potentially linked to poor tire conditions. Images from the scene showed one of the truck's wheels missing its tire, leaving only the bare rim, indicating a possible blowout as the cause.
These events highlight the urgent need to improve the maintenance of public transport vehicles in Cuba, as well as ensure the quality of the tires used, to prevent accidents that jeopardize the safety of passengers and drivers.
Addressing Vehicle Safety in Cuba
What caused the accident in Sancti Spíritus?
The accident was caused by a tire blowout, leading the driver to lose control of the vehicle, which then crashed into a tree.
How are the injured being treated?
The injured have been taken to the Camilo Cienfuegos Provincial General Hospital, where they are receiving appropriate medical care, with their conditions being monitored closely.
What steps are being taken to prevent similar accidents?
There is a pressing need to enhance maintenance of public transport vehicles and ensure the quality of tires to prevent further accidents.