Bus Crash Near Bucaramanga, Colombia, Leaves Five Injured
A serious traffic accident involving a passenger bus and a tractor-trailer occurred on December 30, 2024, near Bucaramanga, Colombia, leaving five people with injuries. The collision took place on the highway leading to Piedecuesta, Santander, in an area known as El hueco, just outside the city limits.
Initial reports suggest the Brasilia bus, traveling the Bogotá-Bucaramanga route, veered off the road and collided with a parked tractor-trailer. Witnesses claim the bus driver experienced a microsleep, causing the vehicle to cross the median before impacting the stationary truck.
While the injuries sustained by the five individuals involved were not life-threatening,they were transported to a nearby hospital in Piedecuesta for treatment. Local authorities, including traffic and transportation police, responded swiftly to the scene to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Drivers were advised to seek alternative routes while emergency crews worked to clear the highway.
Videos circulating on social media depict the extent of the damage to the bus. Adding to the examination, witnesses reported that two drivers were on board the bus for the journey.One witness commented to local media,”Such reckless people… being sleepy… they have two drivers,change drivers,don’t be reckless.”
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about road safety in the region. According to the National Road Safety agency (Asnv), 1,594 people have been injured in traffic accidents in Santander so far in 2024—a 22-case increase compared to the 1,572 injuries recorded in 2023.
This accident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of driver vigilance and adherence to safety regulations. The investigation is ongoing, and further updates will be provided as they become available.
Safety Concerns on Colombian Highways
The rising number of traffic accidents in Santander underscores the need for improved road safety measures in Colombia. This incident, while geographically distant, resonates with concerns about driver fatigue and the importance of preventative measures across the globe. The U.S. Department of Transportation,for example,actively campaigns against drowsy driving,emphasizing the dangers of fatigue behind the wheel.
Further investigation into the cause of this accident will likely shed light on potential systemic issues and inform future safety initiatives in Colombia and beyond.
