New regulations in Poland, effective immediately, impose stricter fines and driving bans for offenses like drifting and dangerous maneuvers.
Increased Penalties for Drifting and Reckless Driving
As of today, penalties have increased for drifting – the intentional loss of tire traction – a popular infraction among young drivers. Fines will start at a minimum of 1,500 złoty.
Drifting and driving on one wheel are now prohibited. Penalties include a fine of at least 1,500 złoty and a three-month driving ban.
New Road Safety Law
The regulations are part of a broader law aimed at improving road safety, largely implemented on January 29th. The law introduces new prohibited acts, including illegal races and rallies.
The law also increases criminal sanctions for dangerously reckless driving and violations of court-ordered driving bans, and introduces provisions for vehicle forfeiture.
Targeting Repeat Offenders and Enhancing Safety
The changes aim to eliminate repeat offenders – drivers with multiple driving bans. Increased penalties are intended to deter dangerous behavior and improve road safety.
Violating a court-ordered driving ban can now result in a lifetime driving ban. The law also allows for the confiscation of vehicles in cases of repeated violations, similar to penalties for drunk driving.
Regulations for Motor Vehicle Gatherings and Traffic Obstruction
Motor vehicle gatherings of 10 or more vehicles must now be reported to local municipalities.
Obstructing traffic is now subject to fines under general rules, and more serious disruptions can result in additional fines of up to 1,500 złoty.
Changes to Penalties for Drunk Driving and Serious Accidents
Legislators have removed the requirement to pay the value of a vehicle if a drunk driver is using a vehicle they do not own. Instead, the offender will pay a fine of at least 5,000 złoty, potentially reaching 500,000 złoty.
Causing a fatal accident or serious injury under specific circumstances, such as participating in an illegal race, carries a prison sentence of one to ten years.
Recklessly endangering life or health through excessive speed or unsafe driving practices can result in a prison sentence of three months to five years.
