Driver escapes falling off a bridge on the National Highway after a tire blew out

A truck was nearly plunged off a bridge at kilometer 285 of the National Highway after one of its front tires exploded in an accident that occurred on the night of October 29.

The incident was reported in the Facebook group “ACCIDENTES BUSES & CAMIONES for more experience and fewer victims!”, where several users shared images of the vehicle perched at the edge of the bridge and the remnants of the blown tire.

According to the user Pedro Domínguez, the author of the post, the explosion of the right front tire caused the truck to lose control, although fortunately, "there were no human casualties, only material losses."

The images show the cargo vehicle visibly damaged, with the front end against the bridge wall and one of the tires destroyed on the pavement.

In the comments section of the group, dozens of internet users expressed their relief regarding the driver's fate. "Thank God, it was only material loss; the important thing is that they are safe and alive," wrote one user, while others recalled how dangerous that stretch of highway is, especially between Santa Clara and Sancti Spíritus, where numerous accidents have occurred.

Several users also pointed to the poor technical conditions of the vehicles and the deterioration of the roads as factors that exacerbated these situations. “That happens when there are no resources; state trucks are running on old tires and even with the cords exposed. Many drivers have to buy them themselves in order to keep working,” commented a group member, reflecting a concern shared by many Cuban transport workers.

Other witnesses reported that they passed by the area during the early morning and offered help to the driver. “Perhaps it was little I could offer, just a bottle of cold water, but thank God nothing happened to him,” wrote the user in a message that captures the blend of solidarity and resignation with which Cubans often confront such events on the roads.

The accident, which could have ended in tragedy, rekindles the debate about the deterioration of the vehicle fleet and the precarious conditions of the National Highway, a vital route for the transportation of goods and passengers on the island.