An ambulance and a taxi were involved in a severe collision this Wednesday in the city of Cárdenas, Matanzas, in which there were no injuries, but both vehicles were damaged.
The accident happened early in the morning, at the intersection of Cristina and Palma streets, reported user Mayito Rivero in a video shared on Facebook.
The collision caused damage to the bodies of the vehicles, especially the taxi, which suffered severe destruction to the front. The ambulance from the Integrated Medical Emergency System (SIUM) also sustained damage to the front, and the impact destroyed the headlight on the driver's side.
So far, the causes of the incident have not been revealed. Police and Ministry of the Interior (Minint) officials were present at the scene investigating the event.
Although the collision fortunately resulted in no fatalities or injuries, material losses in transport services are once again being reported, as the economic crisis hits the country and particularly its population with greater intensity.
Less than a month ago, in the city of Matanzas, another ambulance was also involved in an accident, sliding on the polished concrete pavement of a steep street and crashing into the front of a house.
Accidents involving ambulances are occurring with some frequency in the country, worsening the very critical situation with these vehicles, the scarcity of which continues to significantly impact medical care, delaying the transfer of patients and contributing to the deterioration of their health condition.
The event that occurred this Wednesday, although minor, adds to the worrying streak of accidents that has marked the start of 2025, many of which have had fatal outcomes. The frequency and severity of these traffic incidents are causing alarm among the population.
Authorities recently reported that in 2024, there was a decrease in the number of traffic accidents, as well as in the figures for deaths and injuries compared to the previous year.
According to official statistics, 7,507 traffic accidents, 634 deaths, and 6,613 injuries were recorded, figures that are lower than those of 2023.
The Specialized Transit Body of the General Directorate of the Revolutionary National Police (PNR) points to driver responsibility as the main cause of accidents in Cuba.
Frequently Asked Questions about Traffic Accidents in Cuba and Their Impact on the Healthcare System
What happened in the recent accident in Cárdenas?
An ambulance and a taxi collided in Cárdenas, Matanzas, causing significant material damage to both vehicles. Fortunately, there were no injuries in the incident.
Why are accidents involving ambulances frequent in Cuba?
Accidents involving ambulances in Cuba are frequent due to the poor condition of the streets and roads, the technical state of the vehicles, or reckless driving.
How does the shortage of ambulances affect the healthcare system in Cuba?
The shortage of ambulances in Cuba delays the transfer of patients and can worsen their health condition, exposing the shortcomings of the public health system. This situation reflects the precariousness of the system, which faces logistical and infrastructure issues.
What are the main causes of traffic accidents in Cuba?
The main causes of traffic accidents in Cuba are driver violations, the poor condition of the roads, and the age of the vehicle fleet. The lack of road maintenance and recklessness behind the wheel are key factors.
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