A cyclist tragically lost his life this Friday in Bayamo after being struck by a truck, according to reports circulating on social media.
A post in the Facebook group 'Accidentes Buses & Camiones' indicated that the incident took place on Vicente Quesada Street in the city.
"Does anyone know about the accident in Bayamo, where a truck hit a cyclist on Vicente Quesada? I heard the cyclist died," a user posted in the group.
The information was corroborated by other users in the comments, who identified the victim as Pablo Estrada, a resident of the 'Rosa la Bayamesa' neighborhood.
"My condolences to the family, neighbors, and friends of Pablo Estrada. Rest in peace," commented Rubinaicy Álvarez Carrazana. This editorial team reached out to her for confirmation, but as of the time of writing, no response has been received.
According to Dariel Peña Almeida, the author of the original post, the cyclist died instantly when one of the truck's wheels ran over his head. "There were brain remains; the truck's wheels went right over him," he specified.
Accidents involving cyclists are unfortunately common in Cuba. The transportation crisis forces many to use bicycles, posing significant risks due to the poor condition of roads, inadequate signage, and the lack of safe pathways for cyclists.
Other Recent Accidents Involving Cyclists
In early July, a woman suffered severe injuries in a dramatic accident involving a tour car in Granma Province, according to social media reports.
The incident occurred on the Jiguaní-Baire highway when a tour car attempted to overtake a truck and collided with a bicycle carrying a woman.
In March, a car driver allegedly driving in the wrong direction on a street in Vedado, Havana, struck a young cyclist, who sustained serious injuries requiring ambulance transport to a hospital.
The events unfolded at the intersection of 21st and 4th streets when a Hyundai car, reportedly driving against traffic on 21st Street, crashed into the young cyclist.
In February, an accident on the busy Camilo Cienfuegos Avenue in Las Tunas left a woman injured after a bicycle collided with a motorcycle, for reasons that could not be determined.
FAQs about Cyclist Safety in Cuba
Given the frequent accidents involving cyclists in Cuba, it is essential to address some key questions and concerns regarding cyclist safety in the country.
What are the main causes of cyclist accidents in Cuba?
The primary causes include poor road conditions, inadequate signage, and the lack of designated bike lanes, forcing cyclists to navigate dangerous traffic situations.
How can cyclists protect themselves on Cuban roads?
Cyclists are advised to wear helmets, use reflective gear, follow traffic rules, and stay alert to their surroundings to minimize risks.
What actions are being taken to improve cyclist safety in Cuba?
While there are some efforts to improve road conditions and signage, more significant and sustained initiatives are needed to ensure the safety of cyclists.