A Polish court ruled that a professional driver caught driving under the influence should not receive leniency and faces a six-month driving ban.
DUI Conviction and Penalties
The Toruń Regional Court determined that the man committed a misdemeanor under Article 87, paragraph 1 of the Misdemeanor Code, which carries a penalty of arrest or a fine of at least 2500 złoty. He was found with 0.11 mg/l of alcohol in his breath during a roadside check.
The court emphasized that driving under the influence poses a threat to public safety and that the driver was aware of the risks associated with consuming alcohol and then operating a vehicle.
Driver’s Defense Dismissed
The driver claimed he had consumed syrup for a cold containing alcohol and one beer the previous evening. He also argued that losing his license would prevent him from getting to work.
Aggravating Factor: Professional Status
The court rejected the argument that his profession should warrant a lighter sentence, stating that a professional driver should be especially aware of the dangers of drunk driving. It noted that he could potentially retrain during the ban.
Significant Culpability and Preventative Measure
The court found the driver’s culpability to be significant, citing his awareness of the law and lack of extenuating circumstances. The six-month driving ban was imposed as a preventative measure to deter future offenses.
No Leniency for Professional Drivers
The court underscored that the law mandates the removal of driving privileges from those driving under the influence, regardless of their profession. It acknowledged the hardship a ban may cause a professional driver but maintained that it should not be a reason for leniency.
Broader Implications of License Suspension
The court also noted that losing a driver’s license can create employment issues for many individuals, not just professional drivers, as it is often necessary for both commuting and performing job duties.
