A classic car, specifically a vintage Oldsmobile, collided with a truck in Holguín on Wednesday afternoon, resulting in injuries to several passengers. This incident was reported by a witness on the Facebook group, Accidentes Buses & Camiones.
The crash occurred at the crossroads of Carretera de Gibara and Camino Militar. According to the witness, the Oldsmobile lost control and crashed into a blue truck. Fortunately, there were no fatalities, but some individuals sustained injuries, although the exact number remains unspecified.
While the cause of the accident hasn't been officially determined, a commenter claiming to be related to one of the injured mentioned that alcohol consumption played a role in the crash. Images shared online depict the front of the Oldsmobile as severely damaged, highlighting the impact's force. Interestingly, the truck suffered minimal harm, which sparked discussion among social media users.
The accident led to numerous comments lamenting the condition of the almendrón—a cherished, well-maintained vehicle. "That Oldsmobile would turn heads wherever it was parked. It even had air conditioning," remarked one user. Another expressed sorrow for the car, stating, "After knowing there were no fatalities and hoping the injured recover, seeing that car in such a state hurts... it was a beast!"
Commentators shared similar sentiments: "That little car was a gem," "In Cuba, maintaining a car is tough, but it was clearly well cared for," and "Bodywork is expensive these days, but as long as there are no fatalities, the rest is trivial." One user noted, "It's a shame about the car, but if they hadn't been drinking, none of this would've happened," revealing that her stepfather, who sustained a forehead injury, was among the injured but is in stable condition.
Despite the accident's severity, many agreed that the absence of fatalities was the paramount concern. "The car can be fixed; life is what truly matters," concluded a commenter. As of this report, no further details have been provided.
The Government's Stance on Traffic Accidents in Cuba
In January, the Cuban government placed the blame for most traffic accidents in 2024 squarely on drivers, as per a report from the National Revolutionary Police (PNR). The leading causes cited were distracted driving, failing to yield the right of way, and speeding.
Colonel Roberto Rodríguez Fernández noted a 12% reduction in accidents compared to 2023, with 7,507 incidents recorded, resulting in 634 fatalities (a 13% decrease) and 6,613 injuries (a 4% decrease). Speeding remains hazardous, with at least one injury per accident and one death for every seven incidents.
Authorities found that 665 drivers involved in accidents were under the influence of alcohol, leading to the suspension of 1,204 licenses and the revocation of 20 for repeat offenses. Pedestrian accidents continue to be the third leading cause of roadway deaths.
Officials also highlighted a rise in accidents involving motorcycles, mopeds, pedicabs, and animal-drawn vehicles. Although Vice Prime Minister Jorge Luis Tapia acknowledged the poor condition of roads, he maintained that human error is the primary factor in these accidents.
Understanding Traffic Accidents in Cuba
What caused the accident between the Oldsmobile and the truck in Holguín?
While the exact cause is unclear, a relative of one of the injured suggested that alcohol consumption was a factor in the crash.
How did the Cuban government respond to traffic accidents in 2024?
The Cuban government attributed most traffic accidents to driver error, focusing on issues like distracted driving, failure to yield, and speeding.
Were there any fatalities in the Holguín accident?
Fortunately, there were no fatalities in the accident, although several individuals were injured.
What measures are being taken against drivers under the influence in Cuba?
Drivers found under the influence face license suspensions, with repeat offenders having their licenses revoked.