In the early hours today, a traffic accident occurred on a highway on the outskirts of Camagüey city, involving a tourist car that crashed into a horse-drawn cart. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, though the collision resulted in significant material damage.
According to initial details shared by Wade Wuilson on the Facebook group "Traffic Accidents in Cuba," the incident took place on the South Ring Road. It happened early in the morning on a poorly lit stretch of the highway. While specific details of the accident are scarce, it seems the cart lacked proper lighting, making it difficult for the car driver to notice it in time.
A video posted in another Facebook group, "ACCIDENTES BUSES & CAMIONES por más experiencia y menos víctimas!" shows the vehicle's front end severely damaged. The footage also captured police presence and bystanders assisting those involved in the accident.
Debate on Road Safety in Cuba
The incident stirred a lively debate in the comments section, highlighting the frequent violations by horse-drawn cart drivers who often travel without adequate lighting. On the other hand, some commenters criticized the excessive speeds at which tourist cars travel in Cuba, ignoring the fact that the island's roads are not in the best technical condition compared to other countries.
Rising Concern Over Horse-Drawn Cart Accidents
Throughout 2024, accidents involving horse-drawn carts have been a persistent concern in Cuba, with numerous incidents recorded across various provinces. In October, in Santiago de Cuba, a van collided with a horse-drawn cart at the city's entrance, resulting in the immediate death of the cart's driver.
A similar tragedy occurred in Santa Teresa, where a vehicle from the General Prosecutor's Office crashed into a horse carriage, causing the tragic death of two brothers traveling in the cart.
Another notable accident happened in November in Ciego de Ávila. A tourist taxi collided with the rear tires of a trailer while attempting to avoid a cart moving without proper lighting, commonly referred to as "horse spider." Although no fatalities were reported, the event reignited concerns about the nighttime operation of these vehicles.
Earlier this year in Guantánamo, a 16-year-old boy lost his life after a car collided with a horse-drawn cart in the Macambo area of San Antonio del Sur. The accident also left several people injured, some with serious injuries.
Frequently Asked Questions About Road Safety in Cuba
Why are horse-drawn carts a concern on Cuban roads?
Horse-drawn carts often travel without proper lighting, making them difficult to spot, especially at night, leading to frequent accidents.
What measures can be taken to improve road safety in Cuba?
Improving road infrastructure, enforcing lighting requirements for carts, and promoting safe driving speeds for motor vehicles are vital steps.
Have there been recent efforts to address these road safety issues?
While there have been discussions, comprehensive measures to improve road safety for both motor vehicles and horse-drawn carts are still needed.