A series of recent accidents along the Cuenca–Azogues highway is raising concern among residents and road safety experts, as incidents continue to occur along one of the region’s busiest corridors.
The latest crash took place Monday morning, March 23, near the entrance to Santa Ana Cemetery. Four vehicles were involved, including a Grand Vitara that overturned on the roadway. Emergency crews responded quickly, and one injured व्यक्ति was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Authorities removed the vehicles and began standard procedures at the scene.
This incident follows another serious collision on March 17 in the Challuabamba sector, where a vehicle crossed the median and collided with oncoming traffic. One person died in that crash, while another was injured.
Earlier in the year, on February 23, a motorcyclist was killed after becoming trapped between a bus and a car near Punta Corral. Following that incident, nearby residents called for stronger enforcement measures, including speed controls and restrictions on roadside parking.
Traffic specialists point to a combination of factors contributing to the rising number of accidents. One of the most significant is excessive speed, particularly on straight stretches of road that can give drivers a false sense of safety.
Reckless overtaking is another major concern. With heavy traffic and frequent curves, risky passing maneuvers increase the likelihood of collisions.
Road conditions may also play a role. While the pavement itself is generally in good condition, some sections have loose sand and sediment along the edges, which can reduce traction and lead to loss of control.
Distraction behind the wheel has also become a growing issue. Experts warn that mobile phone use while driving is contributing to delayed reactions and more severe accidents.
Specialists say that improved enforcement could help reduce risks. Speed radars, in particular, are being recommended as a preventive tool rather than a punitive measure, as they encourage drivers to maintain consistent speeds.
There are also calls for increased monitoring and better traffic management along the route, especially in high-risk sections.
For residents and expats living in or traveling between Cuenca and Azogues, the message is clear: this is a road where caution is increasingly necessary. With traffic volumes remaining high and risk factors stacking up, safety on this corridor is becoming a growing concern.