Cuba Sees Rise in Traffic Fatalities Despite Fewer Accidents in 2025

In early 2025, Cuba reports a rise in traffic fatalities despite a decrease in accidents, with Minister of Transport Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila highlighting troubling statistics. Across the first quarter, accidents decreased to 1,738, yet fatalities surged from 146 to 173, with significant variations in provincial data. Road conditions, consistent human factors, and vehicle maintenance issues are cited as key problems, prompting calls for serious preventive measures by the government.

Traffic Fatalities Increase in Cuba Despite Fewer Accidents in Early 2025
The first quarter of 2025 has seen a troubling rise in traffic fatalities in Cuba, even though overall incidents have decreased. Minister of Transport, Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila, shared these insights on his official Facebook page, accompanied by an infographic. The data suggests a need for a deeper look into the country’s traffic safety measures.
Between January and March, Cuba recorded 1,738 traffic accidents, which marks a drop of 144 from the same quarter in 2024. While injuries also saw a reduction with 1,514 reported, 87 less than last year, fatalities rose significantly. Reportedly, the death toll jumped from 146 to 173, reflecting an increase of 27 lives lost. Rodríguez pointed out that March was particularly grim in terms of fatalities.
The report outlined notable regional disparities, with provinces such as Villa Clara, Cienfuegos, Granma, Sancti Spíritus, and Las Tunas seeing the highest increases in accidents. Furthermore, cities like Havana, Ciego de Ávila, and Camagüey reported heightened death tolls, raising alarms for local authorities and families alike. The Minister expressed concern over the impact on families affected by these accidents, asserting that preventive measures must be prioritized.
Despite ongoing governmental efforts to curb accidents, road safety remains a pressing issue across the island nation. The administration often attributes the rise in incidents to human error without tackling the underlying causes, which include deteriorating road conditions and insufficient road signage. Many individuals are compelled to use hazardous transportation options due to a failing public transport system.
In January, the government asserted that driver negligence was the leading cause of accidents, stressing lack of attention as the main contributor. This was coupled by reported instances of speeding and neglecting right-of-way rules. Other problematic factors included alcohol consumption and frequent violations of traffic regulations. Furthermore, enhancements in mandatory rest periods for professional drivers and increased maintenance of road infrastructures were suggested as necessary steps forward.
The situation on largely cobbled streets is exacerbated by an aging vehicle fleet with limited upkeep, resulting in frequent, often severe crashes. Official sources have indicated that about 75% of roadways in Cuba exist in a state classified as fair to poor. Notably, municipal roads, including treacherous mountain routes, are among the most damaged, signaling a clear need for mechanized repairs that are currently hampered by lack of resources and funding.
In a statement last July, Rodríguez highlighted financial challenges in managing infrastructure repairs and outlined mismanagement issues that further obstruct funding allocations for essential roadwork. To confront these dilemmas, several initiatives were proposed, including restructuring management boards and devising a financial scheme specifically for road maintenance. Additionally, partnerships with academic institutions may generate innovative solutions for this persistent challenge.
As fatalities and accidents remain a concern for residents, multiple questions arise regarding the Cuban government’s approach to improving road safety moving forward. Residents are left wondering if substantial progress will be made addressing these alarming trends, beyond just recognizing the issues at hand.

In conclusion, traffic fatalities in Cuba have risen significantly in the early months of 2025, despite a decrease in total accidents. The government faces a substantial challenge as underlying issues like road deterioration and human factors continue to affect safety. Authorities are urged to take concrete steps to improve infrastructure and control measures to safeguard the lives of citizens. As fatalities climb, immediate action and improved management are imperative to reverse this trend and enhance road safety.

Original Source: en.cibercuba.com