Poland strengthens pedestrian right‑of‑way rules and sees sharp drop in crossing deaths

Poland’s traffic regulations give pedestrians priority at marked crosswalks and require drivers to yield when turning across the road, even if no crosswalk is marked. Violations can bring fines of up to 1,500 zł and 15 penalty points, with higher penalties for repeat offences.

Official 2025 statistics show 2,530 accidents involving pedestrians at crossings, resulting in 112 fatalities and 2,512 injuries. Compared with 2020, total pedestrian deaths fell by 47 % after the expanded right‑of‑way rules were introduced, and the share of accidents caused by pedestrians dropped from 1,385 to 803. The data illustrate a significant improvement in road safety for pedestrians in Poland.

The article also notes that Italy applies similar pedestrian‑priority rules, but fines are lower (167‑665 €) and the overall fatality numbers remain higher, highlighting the impact of stricter enforcement in Poland.