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A Russian tourist is in serious condition after a minivan from the Cuban state company Transtur overturned, in which she was traveling with eight other compatriots, during a journey between Cayo Coco and Havana.
The accident occurred near the city of Jagüey Grande, in the province of Matanzas, according to the information.
According to the testimony of one of the passengers to the newspaper Moskovskaya Gazeta, the vehicle traveled approximately 150 meters along the side of the road, collided with a fence, and subsequently overturned.
It is claimed that the Cuban driver may have fallen asleep at the wheel, although authorities have not confirmed this version, mentioned the independent media Diario de Cuba.
The most affected victim, a woman whose identity has not been disclosed, suffered a possible fracture in her spine and remains hospitalized in a hospital in Matanzas, accompanied by a guide and an interpreter, as confirmed by the Russian tour operator PEGAS Touristik, responsible for the group's trip to Cuba.
The other passengers sustained minor injuries, such as bruises and abrasions, and according to the agency, they chose not to seek medical attention, the report states.
Images posted on Facebook show the extent of the incident, with serious visible damage on the left side of the vehicle.
Russian authorities and representatives from the insurance company have already been informed. Lawyer Olga Ivanova reminded that all travelers to Cuba must have mandatory insurance and advised the victim's family to contact the insurer to initiate the necessary procedures.
"It is essential to keep all medical receipts, report the incident, and, in case of needing special air transport or prolonged treatment, contact the Russian consulate in Havana," Ivanova stated.
Regarding possible compensations, the lawyer indicated that it would only be feasible to hold the tour operator accountable if serious negligence or the hiring of an inadequate transporter is proven, which she considers difficult to demonstrate in this case.
So far, the Cuban state company Transtur has not issued an official statement regarding the incident.
The incident adds to the long list of negative experiences reported by Russian tourists visiting the island. Recently, two tourists from that country alleged they were robbed and violently assaulted while walking down a street in Havana.
Frequently asked questions about the Transtur accident in Cuba
How did the accident involving the Russian tourist in Matanzas happen?
The accident occurred when the Transtur minivan overturned after crashing into a fence, while transporting nine Russian tourists from Cayo Coco to Havana. It is suspected that the driver may have fallen asleep.
What is the health status of the most affected Russian tourist?
The Russian tourist suffered a possible fracture in her spine and is in serious condition, hospitalized in Matanzas. She is accompanied by a guide and an interpreter.
What should the family members of the Russian tourist affected in the accident do?
Family members must get in touch with the insurance company to begin the necessary processes, keep all medical receipts, and, if needed, contact the Russian consulate to arrange for special air transport or extended treatment.
What is Transtur's stance regarding the accident?
So far, Transtur has not issued an official statement regarding the accident. The lack of communication has raised concerns about the safety of state transportation in Cuba.
How does this accident affect the perception of tourist safety in Cuba?
This accident, along with other recent incidents, has raised concerns about the safety of tourist transportation in Cuba. The perception of safety has deteriorated, especially among Russian tourists, who view Cuba as a traditionally safe destination.
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