On Tuesday in Valdlauči, a Volkswagen driver crashed into a Nissan minibus that had stopped to turn. According to those involved in the accident, fatigue and bright sunlight shining directly in the eyes may have been the cause.
The accident occurred on Tuesday around noon on Bauskas Street in Valdlauči. The driver of the Volkswagen could not brake in time before the Nissan minibus, which was slowing down to turn left onto Maza Ramavas Street.
After the collision, the Nissan had damage to its rear corner, while the Volkswagen sustained significantly more serious damage — a crumpled hood, a broken headlight, and scattered parts on the road.
The minibus driver, Maksim, stated that he was heading towards Ramava and began to make the turn when he felt a strong impact from behind.
According to him, the driver of the second vehicle may not have noticed the stationary car ahead.
"Yes, it seems he was just tired. He was tired, had little sleep," Maksim told the Degpunktā program (TV3).
He also suggests that the bright sun was an additional factor.
"Around twelve, it was half past eleven, at that time, it probably shone directly in his eyes," said the Nissan driver.
Despite the serious damage to the vehicles, no one was injured in the accident.
Traffic was hindered at the scene for about an hour. After the accident was documented, the minibus was able to continue on its own, while the Volkswagen had to be removed from the road.
The State Police reported that the cause of the accident was a failure to maintain a safe distance.
"Following the incident, the State Police initiated administrative proceedings and decided to impose a fine on the driver of the Volkswagen," said police spokesperson Lina Bagdone.
The incident in Valdlauči serves as a reminder of how dangerous fatigue and bright sunlight can be while driving — especially during the day when a driver loses concentration even on familiar routes.
