In light of the alarming rise in fatal traffic accidents in January, Cuban authorities continue to blame drivers as the main culprits of these incidents and assert that the roads were in "good condition."
According to Colonel Roberto Rodríguez Fernández, head of the Specialized Traffic Organ of the Cuban Police, the accidents in the early weeks of 2025 had “a common denominator: violations of what is established in Law 109 [on road safety], that is, the human factor.”
Rodríguez stated on national television that "in all accidents, paradoxically, the roadway was in good condition" and "the signage was optimal".
He also stated that, except for the massive accident that occurred on the Morón-Isla de Turiguanó road in Ciego de Ávila, the others took place during daylight hours and under favorable weather conditions.
In their report on traffic accidents in 2024, the authorities indicated that drivers were the main responsible parties for the incidents recorded that year, due to three fundamental causes: firstly, not paying attention while driving, as well as disregarding right of way and driving at excessive speed.
In the recent interview with the television, the official reiterated those three causes and added the technical condition of the vehicles and consumption of alcoholic beverages.
About the fateful collision between two buses in Ciego de Ávila, which cost the lives of seven people and was the responsibility of one of the drivers, as concluded by the investigation of the incident, Rodríguez recalled that it occurred “at a time when there was very dense fog.”
However, he warned that when weather conditions are adverse—thick fog, heavy rain, smoke, and wet or slippery pavement—the traffic law in Cuba stipulates that the driver is "required to reduce speed, increase the distance between vehicles, and, if necessary, come to a stop."
Although accidents in Cuba decreased in 2024 compared to previous years, the official lamented the loss of 634 human lives and stated that “a responsible, disciplined, and civic behavior contributes greatly to reducing accidents, fatalities, and injuries.”
Last year, there were 7,507 accidents (12% less than in 2023), with 634 fatalities (a decrease of 13%) and 6,613 injuries (4% less), according to official data.
2025, from its very first weeks, has left a trail of numerous accidents on the roads of the country, many of them marked by fatal outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Traffic Accidents in Cuba
What are the main causes of traffic accidents in Cuba?
The main causes of traffic accidents in Cuba are a lack of attention while driving, disregard for right of way, and speeding, according to authorities. Additionally, the technical condition of vehicles and the consumption of alcoholic beverages also significantly contribute to these incidents.
How does the condition of the roads affect road safety in Cuba?
Although authorities insist that accidents are primarily due to human factors, the deteriorating condition of many roads in Cuba exacerbates the road safety situation. This deterioration contributes to vehicle wear and increases the risk of accidents, especially on peripheral roads that receive less attention.
What measures are recommended for safe driving in adverse conditions in Cuba?
In adverse conditions, such as fog or slippery pavement, it is recommended to reduce speed, increase the distance between vehicles, and, if necessary, come to a stop. These measures are established in Cuban traffic law to reduce the risk of accidents under such circumstances.
What role does alcohol consumption play in traffic accidents in Cuba?
The consumption of alcohol is an important factor in many traffic accidents in Cuba. Numerous driving licenses have been suspended due to intoxication, and authorities have identified this behavior as one of the main causes of these incidents.
What do recent statistics say about traffic accidents in Cuba?
In 2024, a total of 7,507 traffic accidents were recorded in Cuba, representing a 12% decrease compared to the previous year. The number of deaths also decreased by 13%, with 634 fatalities. However, despite these encouraging figures, the start of 2025 has witnessed a worrying increase in the number of accidents.
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