On Sunday afternoon, a Moskvitch traveling on the Siboney road in Santiago de Cuba veered off the road, causing minor injuries to its occupants, according to journalist Yosmany Mayeta on social media.
The source cited witness accounts stating that the driver lost control of the vehicle, which then fell into a depression by the road and became entangled in the fence of a private property. The number of people in the car and the extent of their injuries have not been disclosed, although they appear to be minor.
In the comments section of the post, user Iris Marys Rodríguez Rivera mentioned that the car's differential broke and clarified that the driver does not drink, countering speculations that the driver might have been under the influence of alcohol.
Photos shared on social media showed a green Moskvitch with severe damage to its front end. As of the time of writing, no further details about the incident have been provided.
In recent weeks, there has been a noticeable increase in severe accidents across the country, many of them fatal. Although the public perceives a rise in traffic accidents in recent months, Cuban authorities stated earlier this month that there were 543 fewer incidents in the first half of 2024 compared to the same period last year.
On the state-run TV program Mesa Redonda, Colonel Roberto Rodríguez Fernández, head of the Specialized Traffic Agency of the Ministry of the Interior (MININT), also reported 81 fewer deaths (a 23% decrease) and 151 fewer injuries (a 5% reduction) from January to June this year compared to the same period in 2023.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Santiago de Cuba Car Accident
Below are some common questions and answers regarding the recent car accident in Santiago de Cuba involving a Moskvitch.
What caused the Moskvitch to veer off the road?
Witnesses reported that the driver lost control of the vehicle, which then fell into a depression and got entangled in a fence.
Were there any serious injuries in the accident?
The injuries were reported to be minor, but the exact number of people and the nature of their injuries have not been disclosed.
Is there any indication that the driver was under the influence of alcohol?
No, a commenter clarified that the driver does not drink, countering speculations of alcohol consumption.