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The Cuban government pointed to drivers as the main responsible parties for traffic accidents in Cuba, while assessing the causes of road incidents in the country during 2024.
Failing to pay proper attention to vehicle control was the main cause of traffic accidents last year, followed by disregarding the right of way and exceeding the speed limit, according to a report from the Specialized Transit Body of the National Revolutionary Police Directorate (PNR).
Colonel Roberto Rodríguez Fernández, head of that police department, indicated that in 2024 there was a decrease in the number of accidents, fatalities, and injuries compared to the previous year. Although they decreased by 12%, a total of 7,507 accidents occurred, with 634 fatalities (a 13% decrease) and 6,613 injuries (down 4%), reported the official newspaper Granma.
According to the official, failing to properly attend to the operation of the vehicle caused 30% of accidents. Although incidents decreased due to the failure to respect right of way, these events accounted for the highest number of deaths, at 29.9%.
Fewer accidents caused by speeding were reported, along with a decrease in deaths and injuries related to this cause. However, this factor "remains extremely dangerous; each accident results in at least one injury, and every seventh incident results in a fatality."
The authorities stated that approximately 665 drivers were under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incidents. For this reason, 1,204 driving licenses were suspended for up to one year, 20 were revoked due to repeat offenses, and another 35 cases resulted in charges for being intoxicated.
The official report warned that pedestrian collisions remain the third leading cause of fatalities and the most dangerous type of accident.
Likewise, the number of accidents involving bicycles and pedicabs has increased, along with the fatalities and injuries resulting from these incidents.
Similarly, motorcycles and mopeds were involved in 3% more incidents compared to 2023 and "in relation to the total number of accidents."
A total of 436 accidents involved animal-drawn transport, resulting in 22 fatalities and 252 injuries. The drivers of these vehicles were responsible for 57% (238) of the incidents in which they were involved.
Colonel Raúl Cano López, deputy chief of the specialized criminal investigation and common crime body of the Ministry of the Interior, warned that “human factors continue to be the primary cause directly involved in each of the incidents.” At the same time, he expressed concern about “traffic violations along with the increase of electric motorcycles and scooters in vehicle circulation, a condition that heightens danger.”
He admitted that "a significant number of electric motorcycle riders are identified without the corresponding driver's license, including those under the age of 16," and warned that "alterations are made to the electrical systems to allow for greater speeds," in addition to the use of non-certified helmets.
The Deputy Prime Minister Jorge Luis Tapia Fonseca acknowledged the poor overall condition of the main roads and highways in the country, but stated that this is not the primary cause of traffic accidents.
In its report on road accidents during 2023, the Cuban government attributed 91% of the incidents to human factors.
In a previous report covering January to October 2023, the Police indicated that speeding and alcohol consumption were among the main causes of accidents during that period, as well as the fatalities and injuries.
Precisely, the authorities attributed the fatal collision of two workers' transport buses that occurred this Monday on the road connecting the city of Morón with the Island of Turiguanó in Ciego de Ávila to “human error,” which claimed the lives of six people and injured 59 others.
Frequently Asked Questions About Traffic Accidents in Cuba
Who are considered the main responsible parties for traffic accidents in Cuba?
Drivers are identified as the primary responsible parties for traffic accidents in Cuba, according to the Cuban government. A report from the Specialized Traffic Organ of the General Directorate of the Revolutionary National Police (PNR) identified the human factor as the main cause of these incidents.
What are the main causes of traffic accidents in Cuba?
The main causes of traffic accidents in Cuba include lack of attention to vehicle control, disregard for right of way, and speeding. A significant number of drivers are also reported to be driving under the influence of alcohol.
How has the condition of the roads affected road safety in Cuba?
Although the Deputy Prime Minister Jorge Luis Tapia Fonseca acknowledged the poor overall condition of the most important roads and highways, he stated that this is not the main cause of traffic accidents. However, the deterioration of road infrastructure remains a problem that increases the risk of accidents.
What measures have been taken against drivers who operate under the influence of alcohol in Cuba?
In response to driving under the influence of alcohol, 1,204 driving licenses have been suspended for up to a year, 20 were revoked due to repeat offenses, and another 35 cases resulted in charges for being intoxicated. These measures aim to reduce the incidence of accidents related to alcohol consumption.
How has the situation regarding traffic accidents in Cuba changed compared to previous years?
In 2024, there was a 12% decrease in the number of accidents, with a total of 7,507 incidents, 634 fatalities (13% less) and 6,613 injuries (4% less) compared to the previous year. Despite this reduction, human factors remain the primary cause of accidents.
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