Warsaw sees surge in motorcycles with warmer February weather, creating dangerous mix of returning riders and winter road conditions.
Rising Motorcycle Numbers Amid Winter Conditions
Late February and early March bring the first noticeably warmer days to Warsaw, along with a sharp increase in the number of motorcycles on the streets. This is a moment when motorcycle mobility returns, while winter conditions and habits persist on the roads, both among motorcyclists and car drivers.
Road Hazards and Weather Risks
Forecasts for Warsaw indicate daytime temperatures around 10-15°C with nights near 0°C, which promotes surface cooling – especially in the morning, evening, and in shaded areas. Under such conditions, traction can be variable, and roads may still contain residues from winter road maintenance, including pollutants, sand, and salt.
At the start of the season, “still not the best road conditions” and variable weather increase the risk of incidents, so both motorcyclists and car drivers should exercise particular caution.
Adjustment Challenges for Riders and Drivers
After winter break, motorcyclists should “slowly get into the season,” while car drivers need time to readjust to the presence of motorcycles. This is a practical problem of the first weeks – on the road, there are motorcyclists returning to riding after several months and drivers who have rarely seen motorcycles in motion during winter.
High-Risk Situations
At the beginning of the warmer period, dangerous situations most often occur during maneuvers and in places with limited visibility.
Essential Safety Rules
Basic rules that are crucial at the beginning of the season: adjusting speed to conditions (the surface may be dirty or slippery), no speeding, clear and early signaling of maneuvers, maintaining safe distance, limited trust, sobriety, proper clothing and helmet, as well as elements improving visibility.
Police Recommendations
The start of the season requires “readjusting” attention to motorcycles. The metropolitan police point out to be vigilant during maneuvers – especially when changing lanes and changing direction of travel – and that motorcyclists are less visible than cars.