Poland enforces strict penalties for drunk driving on public and private roads

Polish law treats operating any vehicle with a blood alcohol level between 0.2 ‰ and 0.5 ‰ as a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of 2,500–30,000 zł, a driving ban of six months to three years and up to 15 penalty points. Exceeding 0.5 ‰ is a criminal offence that can lead to up to three years' imprisonment, a minimum three‑year licence suspension, vehicle confiscation and civil liability. The Police Headquarters states that the same rules apply on public roads as well as on private, agricultural and forest roads, and officers may conduct breath‑tests as a preventive measure.

On 18 July, near Bagienice Szlachetne in the Masovian region, a 45‑year‑old motorower rider was found with nearly 3 ‰ alcohol in her blood after she lost control of the vehicle and fell at a road junction. She was taken to hospital with injuries and now faces the full range of penalties for driving under the influence, including possible imprisonment, a driving ban and heavy fines.