A truck overturned this week in the municipality of Báguano, in the province of Holguín, according to a report in the Facebook group Accidentes Automovilísticos en Cuba.
Despite the shocking images showing the vehicle with severe damage, there were no human casualties to mourn.
The incident occurred on the morning of December 3rd in an area known as Loma de Rejodones, on the road to Mayarí, a secondary route that seems to be very dangerous due to its steep slopes and sharp curves, as noted by several users online.
According to witnesses, the truck - whose occupants are from the province of Artemisa - overturned while going down one of the steepest slopes on the road.
"A huge scare for the driver; he's almost certainly out of brakes or didn't gauge the danger in that area." "That hill is quite dangerous; you need good brakes to navigate it." "Thank God it was only material damage. You have to be very cautious and have good brakes on that hill." "And he made it quite far! He managed to reach the fourth consecutive curve. Most don't make it past the third," were some comments from drivers familiar with the area.
The concern is not new for the residents in the area and for those who regularly pass through the place.
"Whenever I can, I warn drivers about this stretch, because many are unaware of its dangers, especially those from other provinces. I believe it is one of the most hazardous sections of the central highway," commented Glenis Cruz, a resident of the town of El Manguito.
Cruz also recalled that the area has been the site of numerous fatal accidents over the years, particularly involving large vehicles like the one involved in this incident.
"In the 1970s, National Transport prohibited us from using that road because of how dangerous it was. We had to go through the town of Holguín and enter through the sugar mill," noted Fidel Páez, confirming that the danger has been present for years.
Accidents of all kinds show no mercy on Cuban roads.
In the case of heavy vehicles, this brings the total to at least four trailers or trucks involved in accidents in recent days.
On November 24, a modern trailer, allegedly rented by the Cuban beer factory Tínima, also ended up overturned on a road in Camagüey. In this case, the accident reportedly resulted only in material damage.
Days later, a truck identified as "the wedge of the Marreritos" that was carrying a refrigerated container overturned on the Central Highway near Ciego de Ávila.
Fortunately, in that case, both the driver and their passenger emerged unharmed, with only material damages reported, as confirmed by witnesses and friends and colleagues of those involved.
In more recent days, a truck carrying goods caught fire on the National Highway.
Frequently Asked Questions About Trailer Accidents in Cuba
Why are accidents involving trailers so frequent in Cuba?
Accidents involving trucks in Cuba are common due to a combination of factors. Poor road conditions, steep slopes, and dangerous curves, such as those on the Rejodones Hill in Holguín, are frequent scenes of these incidents. Additionally, insufficient vehicle maintenance and the lack of proper signage contribute to the high incidence of these accidents.
What measures can be taken to reduce trailer accidents in Cuba?
To reduce trailer accidents in Cuba, it is essential to improve road infrastructure. This includes repairing and maintaining roads, especially in hazardous sections, and ensuring adequate signage. Furthermore, training programs for drivers on road safety should be implemented, along with promoting regular maintenance of cargo vehicles.
What are the consequences of truck accidents on Cuban roads?
Accidents involving tractor-trailers in Cuba often lead to significant material damage and, in some cases, fatalities or injuries. Furthermore, these incidents can cause traffic congestion and economic losses due to the disruption of goods transport. The repeated occurrence of such accidents also raises concerns about road safety in the country.
What do Cubans think about road safety in the country?
The general perception among Cubans is that the country's roads are unsafe. Many believe that the poor quality of the roads, along with the lack of infrastructure and support services for drivers, exacerbates the situation. Comments on social media reflect a constant concern about the risk of accidents and the urgent need for improvements in road safety.
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