A Transmetro bus transporting tourism workers was involved in an accident on Monday afternoon on the road to Turiguanó, in Ciego de Ávila. Fortunately, no one was injured, according to initial reports. The Yutong bus sustained only material damage after one of its tires burst, causing it to collide with a pole, as reported by users on Facebook.
The vehicle was carrying employees from the tourist facilities located in the Jardines del Rey Archipelago. This incident occurred on the same road where a tragic accident weeks earlier claimed the lives of seven people and left nearly 60 injured. On January 20, a head-on collision between two buses transporting tourism workers occurred on the route connecting Morón with the Island of Turiguanó. According to the authorities, the driver of one of the vehicles was held responsible for that fatal crash.
This Monday, around 2 PM, another accident on that road alarmed the passengers of the involved bus, yet all emerged unhurt. Daniel Castro reported on several Facebook groups, "Fortunately, nothing serious happened," he stated. Photos he shared depicted shattered windshield glass, and damage to the door and windows of the bus.
Workers traveling on the vehicle and some of their family members confirmed that "nobody was harmed," and the bus suffered only material damage. In response to comments about the driver's responsibility and speculation about speeding, many defended the driver. "When something like this happens, we always look for someone to blame. In this case, the easiest target is the driver, and we judge and comment without knowing the facts. The driver involved in the accident doesn't drink, doesn't speed, and has a lot of experience. Thanks to him, our work team from Hotel Sol Coco, shift 3 to 11, is safe; otherwise, we wouldn't be here to tell the tale,” emphasized one employee of the tourist hub.
"The incident was caused by a tire explosion, which led to a loss of control of the bus. This driver is excellent, and such events can happen to anyone behind the wheel. Please, before commenting, get the exact version of what happened," warned a Transmetro worker. Many agreed with this version, blaming the authorities for neglecting the vehicle fleet. "In this case, the driver can't be blamed. They need to improve the buses used to transport workers because they are only operational thanks to the drivers. The accident was due to a burst tire, and now the poor driver has to buy a new tire, which can cost up to 30,000 pesos because no one takes responsibility," argued another woman.
The early weeks of 2025 have seen numerous accidents on the country's roads, many with fatal outcomes. Besides the incident in Ciego de Ávila, another tragic event was reported in January in Holguín. Six family members died after the driver of their car lost control and crashed into a large metal pipe on a road in the municipality of Mayarí. Earlier this month, a couple lost their lives when their car collided with a horse-drawn carriage on the Central Highway in Ciego de Ávila.
According to official statistics, there was a decrease in the number of road incidents in 2024, with fewer deaths and injuries compared to the previous year. Overall, 7,507 accidents were recorded, resulting in 634 deaths and 6,613 injuries, figures lower than those of 2023, according to the Specialized Transit Organ of the General Directorate of the Revolutionary National Police (PNR). Authorities continue to point to driver responsibility as the main cause of traffic accidents in the country.
Understanding Traffic Accidents in Cuba
What caused the recent bus accident in Ciego de Ávila?
The recent bus accident in Ciego de Ávila was caused by a tire burst, which led to the bus colliding with a pole. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
How often do traffic accidents occur in Cuba?
Traffic accidents are a common occurrence in Cuba, with many resulting in fatalities. In 2024, there were 7,507 reported accidents, leading to 634 deaths and 6,613 injuries.
What are the primary causes of road accidents in Cuba?
Authorities indicate that driver responsibility is the main cause of road accidents in Cuba, although factors such as vehicle maintenance and road conditions also play significant roles.