A concerning image has circulated on social media: a man in a wheelchair is crossing the middle of Infanta Avenue in Centro Habana, defying traffic and putting both his safety and that of the drivers at risk.
The video was shared on Facebook by the comedian Rigoberto Ferrera, who narrated his attempt to help the elderly man, unsuccessfully, while he continued walking down the road.
"I tried to help him, but... he’s still there in the middle of the street. I hope the Lord keeps him safe," he expressed.
In the recording, the man can be seen moving backward (facing away) towards Zanja Street, while vehicles pass just a few centimeters away from him.
Neighbors and users who commented on the post agreed that this behavior is common: they claim that he walks along Infanta Avenue every day and does not accept help from anyone, neither from passersby nor from drivers.
Some testimonies describe the concern about the risks he faces: they point out that an accident could happen at any moment, yet he seems indifferent to the danger.
"Once I saw him, and it scared me a lot. The thing is, he can ruin a driver's life in a second because it seems he doesn't care about his own anymore; the poor man probably doesn't even have a family," said a mother and grandmother.
"May [God] also be with the drivers, because if they just get hit once, that's already a very big problem," said a father.
The general impression is that the elderly man lacks close family support and that his daily routine poses a constant risk, both for himself and for those who pass through the central avenue.
This case highlights the vulnerability of people with reduced mobility in the city and the lack of adequate infrastructure for their protection.
So far, there has been no report on whether local authorities have intervened or if any measures have been taken to ensure the safety of the man and the drivers who must navigate their daily routes.
The publication has sparked debate about the need for assistance and protection for citizens in similar situations, as well as about road safety in the Cuban capital.
Frequently Asked Questions about Road Safety and Social Abandonment in Cuba
Why is it common to see people in risky situations on the streets of Havana?
The image of the man in a wheelchair facing the traffic in Havana is a reflection of the lack of infrastructure and social support for individuals with reduced mobility. This case highlights the vulnerability of these individuals in the city, where the absence of road safety measures and adequate social assistance endangers their safety as well as that of drivers.
What measures have been taken to improve road safety in Cuba?
So far, no specific interventions by the authorities have been reported to improve road safety in the Cuban capital. The frequent incidents of accidents and reckless driving reflect a lack of effective control and adequate preventive measures.
How does social precariousness affect the lives of the elderly in Cuba?
Social precariousness in Cuba severely impacts the elderly, who often lack family support and basic resources. Cases like that of the man in a wheelchair in Havana showcase the lack of assistance and social protection, while other incidents reflect a reality where the elderly face extreme needs and abandonment.
What role does infrastructure play in the mobility issues in Cuba?
The inadequate infrastructure is a critical factor in mobility issues in Cuba. Poorly marked streets, lack of road maintenance, and the absence of traffic safety measures contribute to the high incidence of accidents and the vulnerability of people with reduced mobility.
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