A truck overturned on the Central Highway near Ciego de Ávila, as reported by the Facebook group Accidentes Buses & Camiones. Fortunately, both the driver and his passenger escaped unharmed, with only material damage reported, according to eyewitnesses and acquaintances of those involved.
The vehicle, known as "la cuña de los Marreritos," was carrying a refrigerated container that ended up toppled on the roadway. The incident occurred around 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday, though the exact causes remain unclear.
Poor Road Conditions and Speed: A Dangerous Combination
One commentator highlighted the dire state of Cuba's main thoroughfares, suggesting that poor road conditions and excessive speed are likely culprits. "The central highway is in terrible shape, as are the eight-lane roads and the Pinar highway," they noted. The accident resulted in a significant traffic jam on the Central Highway.
"I was stuck there for over an hour, and the traffic queue was unbelievable. The driver and his assistant were completely unscathed, but it was sad to see the truck's damage," a witness recalled.
Challenges Faced by Transport Workers
Another commenter raised concerns about the lack of support and infrastructure for transport workers. "There are no rest areas for drivers, and on top of that, the lines for fuel are endless. No one appreciates that effort," they wrote.
While the damaged truck can be repaired, as one online user pointed out, "It's tragic to lose a life. Everything else is replaceable."
Recurring Incidents with Heavy Vehicles
This is at least the second accident involving a heavy vehicle in recent days. On Sunday, a modern truck, reportedly leased by the Cuban beer factory Tínima, also overturned on a highway in Camagüey. In that instance, too, there appeared to be only material damage.