In the first seven months of 2024, the province of Granma, in eastern Cuba, has reported a concerning increase in traffic accidents.
Major Ernesto González Rodríguez, first officer of the provincial Traffic Directorate, told the newspaper La Demajagua that until August 1, there have been 200 accidents, resulting in 22 fatalities and 297 injuries.
The figures exceed those of the previous year in all indicators. The most affected municipalities are Jiguaní, Yara, Manzanillo, and Bayamo, where national and provincial roads show a high concentration of accidents.
González Rodríguez highlighted the danger of the stretch between the urban and national bus terminals in Bayamo, as well as the route between La Pedrera and the Entronque de Bueycito. These are the areas where the most fatalities have been recorded.
The mayor also emphasized the importance of taking extra precautions in areas such as the Manzanillo bypass and the road to Las Tunas, due to the combination of high vehicle traffic, narrow roads, and pedestrian crossings.
Authorities believe that the main causes of these accidents are the disregard for right of way, distractions while driving, such as the use of mobile phones, and improper overtaking.
Mopeds, cars, and bicycles are the vehicles most involved in these incidents.
In 2023, a total of 729 people lost their lives as a result of traffic accidents in Cuba. It was the year with the lowest number of accidents, with 8,556 incidents in which 5,938 individuals were injured.
Despite reporting fewer accidents, the number of deaths increased compared to 2022.
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