An accident on the National Highway at kilometer 115, heading towards Havana, resulted in only property damage after the driver fell asleep while driving. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported.
Rafael Socorro, a user who shared images of the incident on the Facebook group "ACCIDENTES BUSES & CAMIONES por más experiencia y menos víctimas," reported that the driver lost control, veered into the opposite lane, and then returned to his lane, ultimately crashing into a tree. Thankfully, no one was hurt.
Socorro included a cautionary note with his post: “Family, let's not drive when tired. This time of year is very tough. Best wishes to all.”
Comments on the post confirmed that there were no fatalities.
The Bigger Picture: Beyond Human Error
While driver fatigue was a key factor in this incident, experts and citizens agree that traffic accidents in Cuba cannot be solely attributed to individual responsibility. The high accident rate is closely linked to several systemic issues:
Poor vehicle conditions, with many cars being old, using makeshift parts, and lacking adequate maintenance.
The inadequate road lighting, particularly in long stretches of the National Highway, central roads, and rural areas, contributes to hazardous conditions.
Roads are deteriorating, with deep potholes, missing signage, and severely eroded sections.
These factors turn even the smallest error into a significant risk, increasing the chances of a serious accident. Cuba's infrastructure has suffered from years of neglect, amidst a crisis affecting transportation, funding, and material availability.
Understanding Traffic Risks in Cuba
What caused the accident at kilometer 115 on the National Highway?
The accident was caused by the driver falling asleep at the wheel, which led to him losing control of the vehicle and crashing into a tree.
Were there any injuries or fatalities in the accident?
Fortunately, there were no injuries or fatalities reported in the accident.
What are the main factors contributing to traffic accidents in Cuba?
Traffic accidents in Cuba are often linked to poor vehicle conditions, inadequate road lighting, and deteriorating road infrastructure.