Poland enforces these regulations without mercy. You can get a hefty fine

Ignorance of the law will not protect you from a fine, and these can be really high. Here are a few of the most important rules to know before your holiday car trip around Poland.

Speed ​​limits in Poland are different than in Germany.

Those who travel on Polish roads must remember that the maximum speed at which they can travel is 50 km/h in built-up areas, 90 km/h outside built-up areas and 100–120 km/h on expressways (depending on the number of lanes). You can go even faster on motorways, as much as 140 km/h.

For speeding you can pay up to PLN 2,500, and in the case of recidivism the fine increases to PLN 5,000.

Zero Tolerance for Alcohol Behind the Wheel and Mandatory Headlights

In Poland, the blood alcohol limit for drivers is 0.2 per mille. This is significantly lower than the 0.5 per mille allowed in Germany. New drivers are completely banned from drinking alcohol – this also applies to cyclists. Driving under the influence of alcohol may result in a ticket, fine, arrest or imprisonment – ​​depending on the blood alcohol level. Between 0.2 and 0.5 per mille is an offence, above 0.5 per mille is a crime. You may also lose your driving licence, receive 15 penalty points and a high financial penalty. In the event of a serious violation or an accident, your car may be confiscated and you may face up to 12 years in prison.

It is also worth knowing that unlike some countries, drivers in Poland must have their lights on 24 hours a day, regardless of the season and weather. Daytime running lights are allowed, but it is best to use dipped headlights, especially in difficult conditions. Failure to have dipped or daytime running lights on at the required time is an offence. This can result in a fine of up to PLN 300 and 2 penalty points. If the situation is dangerous (for example, at night or in a tunnel), the penalty may be higher. The police may also retain the registration certificate if the lights are damaged.

A fire extinguisher in a car is a must. Even in a rented car

In addition to standard equipment such as a warning triangle, first aid kit and reflective vest, in Poland you also have to have a fire extinguisher. This requirement applies to vehicles registered in Poland – including those rented locally. Failure to have the aforementioned equipment can result in a fine of up to PLN 500, although the police usually give a lower one (for example PLN 50–100) or a warning.

If the equipment is there but is not functional (for example, a fire extinguisher is out of date), a penalty may also be imposed. During a road check, the officer may also retain the registration certificate if he considers that it poses a threat to safety.

Pedestrians have the right of way. No exceptions

Since 2021, pedestrians in Poland have absolute priority on pedestrian crossings - with the exception of trams. It is worth remembering this, because the regulations are strictly enforced. Not letting a pedestrian through on a crossing is a serious offense. It is punishable by a fine of PLN 1,500 and 15 penalty points (from 2022). In the event of recidivism, i.e. breaking the regulation again within 2 years, the fine increases to PLN 3,000. Additionally, the court may order a driving ban.

When it comes to fines, the police in Poland may ask for payment on the spot. In the case of foreigners, cash payment is often required immediately. If you do not have money, officers can take you to an ATM, and if you refuse to pay - the case will go to court and your documents will be seized.

Importantly, plainclothes officers cannot carry out inspections outside built-up areas, and during each intervention they must show their official ID and provide their data.

Read also: The great return to the railway map of Poland. Free tickets and attractions await Read also: Migrants in Germany are thinking about leaving. Some of them to Poland