On Saturday evening, a bystander in Warsaw’s Wola district prevented an Opel from continuing after noticing its zigzagging — a move that revealed the driver’s blood alcohol level exceeded 2.6‰, leading to a swift police arrest.
Citizens Take Action
The incident occurred on 22 November at 19:36 on Górczewska Street near the intersection with Prymasa Tysiąclecia Avenue. A driver’s Opel had a shaky, erratic zigzag pattern that prompted a nearby motorist to suspect alcohol influence. The motorist immediately reported his concerns to the police and blocked the Opel’s path until patrol arrived.
Police Intervene and Test
After being alerted, two police units responded to the scene. Officers seized the Opel driver and conducted an on‑scene breath‑meter test, recording a level of 2.6‰, which places the driver in a state of inebriation under Polish law. The vehicle was towed to the precinct and the driver faced further procedural actions.
Legal Framework and Penalties
Driving under the influence is an offense under Article 178(1a) of the Polish Penal Code, carrying potential imprisonment, disqualification from driving and significant fines. The driver’s elevated alcohol reading exceeds the legal threshold, making charges and sanctions likely.
Role of Witnesses in Polish Law
The law permits citizen’s arrest in situations where a person is caught in the act of a crime, provided the detainee is handed over immediately to the authorities, as stipulated in Article 243 of the Criminal Procedure Code. The witness’s prompt action prevented further danger and ensured lawful intervention.
