In Prauliena, driving licenses turned out to be as necessary as a ticket to Karosta Prison

A tragedy has occurred in Prauliena parish that makes us question our entire education system. On the Krāslava–Preiļi–Madona highway, two cars collided — a BMW and a Toyota Hilux — and it turned out that neither driver had a driver's license. This is almost as surprising as learning that someone is trying to escape from Karosta Prison with a piece of bread.

Police announced with diplomatic precision that criminal proceedings have been initiated and all circumstances will be investigated. A forensic medical examination has also been ordered, as there are suspicions of alcohol or other intoxicating substance use. Well of course, what else could make people think they can drive without a license? Perhaps the same substances that make people think Riga's public transport is efficient.

Particularly disturbing is the fact that someone filmed the scene but didn't immediately provide first aid. According to law, a person must help someone in a life-threatening situation. But as this case shows, laws seem as optional to some as traffic regulations.

Local Prauliena resident Jānis comments: "Well, we country folks are used to people doing whatever they want. But driving without a license — that's going too far." Meteorologists are forecasting calm weather today, which in Latgale means the wind won't blow cars off the road.