Poland auctions confiscated vehicles from drunk drivers

In Poland, new regulations implemented in March 2024 allow courts to confiscate vehicles from drivers found operating under the influence of alcohol. These confiscated cars are subsequently sold through state auctions.

Available inventory in the Lodz Voivodeship ranges from older models, such as a Renault Clio priced at 340 euros, to high-performance luxury vehicles like a 2017 BMW 440i Coupé. The BMW, featuring a 326-horsepower engine, has an estimated auction value of approximately 22,900 euros.

Legal grounds for confiscation include blood alcohol levels of at least 1.5 permille, repeat offenses, or causing accidents while intoxicated. If the vehicle is not owned solely by the driver, the court may opt for a financial penalty equivalent to the car's value instead of seizing the physical asset. Potential buyers are cautioned that some auction vehicles may have damages, mechanical issues, or missing documentation.