Second accident reported between train and car in Ciego de Ávila in a single day

A car suffered severe damage after being struck by a train in Ciego de Ávila, marking the second accident of this kind in one day. Despite the impact, the occupants emerged unharmed.

Car involved in accident with train in Ciego de ÁvilaPhoto © Facebook/Alexander Ríos Cruz

A modern car was severely damaged after being struck by a train in an area known as Maidique, in the province of Ciego de Ávila. This marks the second incident of this type reported in that central region on Thursday.

According to citizen reports in various Facebook groups, the two occupants of the crashed vehicle, a compact sedan or hatchback of the Hyundai brand, possibly a Hyundai Accent from between 2010 and 2016, emerged unscathed from the collision, which is surprising given the circumstances of the accident.

Facebook Capture/Alexander Ríos Cruz

In a video shared by Facebook user Alexander Ríos Cruz, the vehicle can be seen completely overturned, with a crushed roof and clear signs of severe impact, next to a blue train car that also appears to be partially damaged.

Facebook Capture/Facundo Living the Story

"Very sad, one must exercise great caution while driving, and even though trains are becoming extinct, there may come a day when one runs and such incidents occur; we must always respect the railway. Although the people were unharmed, the material loss is nearly irreparable in these times," wrote an internet user, expressing irony about the scarcity of rail transport on the island.

"Traffic regulations must be respected; at a crossing, you have to stop, and the train must sound its horn, something that is rarely done," noted another user.

A commentator remarked that “two accidents occurred, we are at 26, we must adhere to the plan,” in a sarcastic tone that combined the with the fact that two tragic events of this nature happened in the province.

Earlier, a passenger train and a car collided in the municipality of Baraguá, also in Ciego de Ávila, with no casualties reported according to preliminary reports of the accident.

The reports that disclosed the incident stated that those involved were the train covering the Baraguá-Ciego de Ávila route - engine 50933 - and a private vehicle of the Hyundai brand.

According to the information, the car was trying to cross the railway when it was struck by the locomotive at the intersection in the town of Onelio Hernández. The vehicle ended up blocking the tracks.

Frequently Asked Questions About Railway Accidents in Ciego de Ávila

What happened in the train accidents in Ciego de Ávila?

In just one day, two collisions between trains and cars were reported in Ciego de Ávila. The first occurred in the municipality of Baraguá, where a train collided with a Hyundai car while crossing a railway track. The second accident took place in Maidique, where another train struck a modern car, causing significant damage to the vehicle, although there were no casualties in either case.

What are the main causes of these railway accidents?

One of the main causes pointed out by users is the lack of respect for traffic rules by drivers, such as failing to stop at the railroad line. The scarcity of adequate signaling at railroad crossings also contributes to these accidents. Furthermore, the lack of maintenance of railway infrastructures and the deteriorating condition of vehicles are factors that exacerbate the situation.

What measures can be taken to prevent these accidents?

It is crucial to obey traffic signals and to stop at railroad crossings. Additionally, it is necessary for the authorities to improve signage along the tracks and to carry out proper maintenance of both the infrastructure and the vehicles. Road safety education and awareness about the importance of following the rules can help reduce these incidents.

How does the situation with railway transportation in Cuba affect these incidents?

Rail transport in Cuba is facing a crisis due to a lack of maintenance and resource shortages. The railway infrastructure is deteriorating, and trains are scarce, which increases the risk of accidents. Additionally, railway crossings often lack proper signage, heightening the danger at these locations.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.