Sebastian M., accused of causing a fatal accident on Poland’s A1 highway, appeared in court but mediation was ordered instead of a trial.
Fatal Accident on A1 Highway
In September 2023, a tragic accident occurred on the A1 highway near Piotrków Trybunalski, Poland, resulting in the deaths of a married couple and their five-year-old daughter. Sebastian M., the driver of a BMW, was accused of causing this tragedy.
M ediation Process in Polish Courts
Unlike a traditional court case, mediation involves discussion of the dispute with a neutral mediator. “Mediators look to the future,” said Judge Renata Folkman. “They help parties find a way to reconcile based on what happened and their knowledge.”
Mediation Outcomes
Potential outcomes of mediation include: recognition of the accused’s voluntary submission to punishment, acceptance of an agreement as a mitigating circumstance when determining sentencing, extraordinary leniency, or waiving the sentence altogether.