Google Maps is directing drivers to a forbidden left turn at Połczyńska and Powstańców Śląskich intersection in Warsaw, leading to a spike in crashes over two days.
Google Maps Shows a Forbidden Left Turn
Google Maps directs drivers to turn left from Połczyńska onto Powstańców Śląskich, even though a prohibition is posted at the intersection.
The misdirection has led to an increase in dangerous events, with three crashes reported in two days.
Accident on 15 October Involving Car‑Motorcycle Collision
On the afternoon of 15 October, a car traveling Połczyńska from Ożarów turned left onto Powstańców Śląskich against a ban and collided with a motorcycle.
The motorcyclist sustained severe injuries, was hospitalized, and the intersection was paralysed during the peak afternoon.
Police conducted investigations, and the disruption affected travel from Warsaw toward Ożarów Mazowieckiego.
Accident on 16 October Involving Honda and Volvo
On 16 October, a morning incident was followed by a serious collision around 4 p.m. involving a Honda and a Volvo that had made a prohibited left turn.
The Volvo driver went left from Połczyńska onto Powstańców Śląskich despite the ban, causing vehicle and infrastructure damage; two people were taken to hospital.
This was the second incident on the same day with a similar pattern to the motorcycle crash the day before.
How the App Contradicts Road Signs
On the phone screen the route appears logical – the algorithm leads the left lane of Połczyńska and “allows” a left turn onto Powstańców Śląskich.
In the traffic organization that is not permissible; the intersection must be passed straight, a U‑turn performed after it, then a right turn.
Drivers following the navigation enter a collision course, force priority, and cause collisions, presenting a real risk to all road users.
Drivers Rely on Navigation Over Road Signs
Navigation gives a sense of certainty, especially in unfamiliar areas with heavy traffic.
In practice, signage and signals at the location dictate safety – the app is merely a hint.
If a map shows a maneuver contrary to the signs, drivers should follow the traffic organization at the intersection instead.