The driver of a motorcycle crashed through the windshield of a car in an accident that took place this Friday in Havana. According to reports on social media, the car veered into the opposite lane.
"Accident just happened in front of the Polyclinic 5 de Septiembre in Santa Fe, Playa. I don't know any more details about what happened," reported a Facebook user in the group 'Accidents Buses & Trucks'.
Images shared by the user showed that the collision between the two vehicles was frontal. The windshield of the car—a French-made Renault with the license plate B 228 797—had a gaping hole from the impact of the motorcyclist.
According to another social media user, the accident occurred when the car's driver crossed into the opposite lane, apparently after falling asleep.
"Tragic accident. According to witnesses, the driver of the Renault fell asleep and veered into the lane, hitting the motorcycle. I hope the motorcyclist's life isn't in danger and that they recover soon," said the user identified as Alejandro Hernández on Facebook.
Motorcycle accidents remain one of the leading causes of death among Cuban drivers. In August 2023, it was reported that the number of traffic-related deaths in Cuba had increased compared to the previous year, with motorcycles accounting for half of the deaths and accidents in the country.
Recent Motorcycle Accidents in Cuba
In early September, a motorcyclist lost their life in an accident in Guanabo. The passenger, a 25-year-old woman, had to be taken to the hospital. Reports suggest that the young couple was returning from "end of summer activities in Varadero," and the motorcyclist lived in Miami but was originally from Santa Marta, Varadero, Matanzas.
In early July, two young Cubans riding a motorcycle died in Cárdenas, Matanzas, after crashing into a tree near the city's cemetery roundabout. The victims were identified as Tomás Horta León and Amanda Hernández, a couple who left behind a young child.
Around the same time, a young Cuban affectionately nicknamed "Chichu" died in a tragic motorcycle accident in the province of Pinar del Río, a loss that deeply affected the Arroyo de Agua community in Consolación del Sur municipality.
In June, a Cuban couple died in a tragic accident between a motorcycle and a "riquimbili" in the town of Redención, in the Minas municipality of Camagüey.
Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accidents in Cuba
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers to provide more context about motorcycle accidents in Cuba.
What are the main causes of motorcycle accidents in Cuba?
The primary causes of motorcycle accidents in Cuba include driver fatigue, lack of adherence to traffic laws, and poor road conditions.
How many traffic-related deaths involve motorcycles in Cuba?
As of August 2023, motorcycles accounted for half of the traffic-related deaths in Cuba.
What recent motorcycle accidents have occurred in Cuba?
Recent accidents include fatalities in Guanabo, Cárdenas, Pinar del Río, and Camagüey, affecting both local residents and Cubans living abroad.