A motorcyclist suffered severe injuries on Saturday following a traffic incident at the Fontanar junction in Havana, as detailed in social media reports. The crash was highlighted by Yasmany Morales, who shared images on the Facebook group "Accidents of Buses and Trucks," prompting various users to discuss the event.
Morales reported that the victim, a man riding a motorcycle, lost his foot after being struck by a vehicle, allegedly driven by a botero. "It literally severed his foot from the ankle down," Morales noted. Despite some users criticizing the video for not providing closer footage, Morales chose to maintain a respectful distance from the victim.
In Cuba, boteros refer to private taxi drivers who operate along fixed routes. Many have faced accusations of reckless driving, often speeding to pick up more passengers. As of now, there are no official reports detailing the accident's cause, the motorcyclist's health status, or specifics about the driver involved.
Just last week, another motorcyclist was injured in a crash at the busy intersection of Paseo and Calzada in El Vedado, a district within the Plaza de la Revolución municipality. In that incident, a truck collided with the motorcycle, resulting in the rider being hospitalized with head injuries.
Understanding Traffic Incidents in Havana
What is a botero in Cuba?
A botero is a private taxi driver in Cuba who operates along fixed routes, often using vintage cars. They are known for offering more flexible transportation options compared to state-run services.
Why are traffic accidents involving motorcyclists common in Havana?
Traffic accidents involving motorcyclists are common in Havana due to factors such as reckless driving by both motorists and bikers, poor road conditions, and competition among drivers for passengers.