A traffic accident in Santiago de Cuba on Monday led to several injuries, with one individual in critical condition. The incident occurred at the busy intersection of Enramadas and San Miguel streets, a high-traffic area in the city, as reported by journalist Yosmany Mayeta on his Facebook profile.
According to Mayeta, one person was critically injured and was rushed to the nearest hospital. The crash involved a violent collision between two vehicles, resulting in multiple injuries, though it remains unclear whether the injured were vehicle occupants or pedestrians.
Mayeta mentioned that he is continuing to gather details about the accident, which took place near the historic center and the well-known Garzón 18-story buildings. He later provided additional insights, noting eyewitness accounts that a "tourist car lost control and crashed into a concrete pole." A young woman passing by was hit by falling debris from the pole, sustaining injuries to her legs, according to a local witness.
Further details revealed that the private car also collided with a modern vehicle. "The driver of the tourist car was taken away with chest pain; I can't say what nationality he is, but he was also given aid," the source added.
Mayeta highlighted the tense traffic on Enramadas Street, exacerbated by the closure of Victoriano Garzón Avenue and Plaza de Marte due to the Year-End Fair. This has led many drivers to seek alternative routes, increasing vehicular congestion.
Despite the country's economic crisis, some families manage to celebrate the end of the year, which often leads to alcohol-related accidents during this period. Tragically, four members of a family from Holguín, including two minors, died early Saturday when their Lada collided with a truck on the Carretera Central. The fatal crash occurred near "Los Hoyos" in the Majagua municipality, Ciego de Ávila, shared anonymously by a witness in the Facebook group Accidentes Buses & Camiones.
Additionally, a traffic accident in the early hours of Sunday in the 10 de Octubre municipality of Havana resulted in significant material damage. However, the condition of the drivers involved remains unknown. Preliminary reports suggest the accident was caused by an intoxicated driver operating a white truck, which veered out of control, struck a red vehicle, and ended up against a fence, as noted in the Facebook group “ACCIDENTES BUSES & CAMIONES por más experiencia y menos víctimas!”
Understanding the Causes and Effects of Traffic Accidents in Cuba
What are the common causes of traffic accidents in Cuba?
Traffic accidents in Cuba are often caused by a combination of factors including poor road conditions, inadequate vehicle maintenance, and driver error. Additionally, alcohol consumption during festive periods can increase the risk of accidents.
How do road closures impact traffic congestion in Santiago de Cuba?
Road closures, such as those for events like the Year-End Fair, lead to increased traffic congestion as drivers seek alternative routes. This can exacerbate traffic conditions and increase the likelihood of accidents in busy intersections.