-- main --
### title
Road Accident: What To Do

### summary
[📞](112|Emergency)
[🚨](997|Police)
[🏥](999|Ambulance)
[⚠️](Triangle|Mandatory)

### description
Practical, Poland‑specific steps after a collision or accident. Stay safe, meet legal duties, and handle insurance properly.

Polish law recognizes two types of road incidents:

**Kolizja Drogowa (Road Collision)**
- Minor accident with no injuries or only minor injuries (recovered within 7 days)
- Police involvement is optional if both parties agree on fault
- Can usually be resolved with European Protocol statement

**Wypadek (Serious Accident)**
- Results in serious injuries or fatalities
- Police involvement is mandatory
- Requires formal police report and investigation
- May result in criminal liability proceedings

> Call 112 immediately if anyone is injured. This number works in Polish and English.

All emergency services (112, 997, 998, 999) are available 24/7 from any phone.

### Required equipment in Poland
- Warning triangle and fire extinguisher are mandatory for cars registered in Poland
- Reflective vest and first‑aid kit are strongly recommended

### Warning triangle placement (Poland)
- Motorway/expressway: place ~100 m behind the vehicle. Turn on hazards. Wait behind barriers
- Outside built‑up areas: 30–50 m behind the vehicle
- Built‑up areas: immediately behind the vehicle (or on it). Do not obstruct traffic

> On motorways, always leave the carriageway and wait behind a crash barrier.

### Understanding accident types in Poland

**Kolizja Drogowa (Road Collision)**
Minor accident with no injuries or only minor injuries. Minor injuries recover fully within 7 days. Police involvement is optional if both parties agree on fault. Can usually be resolved with European Protocol statement.

**Wypadek (Serious Accident)**
Results in serious injuries or fatalities. Police involvement is mandatory. Requires formal police report and investigation. May result in criminal liability proceedings.

### When to call the police (Poland)

**Police MUST be called when:**
- Anyone is injured or killed (no matter how minor)
- One party lacks valid insurance (OC/CTPCI)
- It is unclear who is at fault
- The culprit refuses to take responsibility
- Any driver shows signs of alcohol or drug intoxication
- The culprit leaves the scene or cannot be identified
- Property damage is extensive or unknown
- Hit-and-run situation
- Public property is damaged (signs, barriers, lighting) or a wild animal is involved
- The vehicles cannot be safely moved

**Police can be optional when:**
- No one is injured
- Both parties are present and cooperating
- Both parties agree on who is at fault
- All parties have valid insurance
- No signs of intoxication
- Property damage is minor and both parties agree

> Even when not mandatory, it is strongly recommended to call police. This protects you if the other party later disputes the facts.

### Immediate actions at the scene

**Step 1: Secure the scene**
1. Stop immediately and turn on hazard lights (emergency flashers)
2. Apply handbrake and remove ignition key
3. Turn off the engine
4. Place warning triangle as above (if safe to do so)
5. Wear reflective vest (if available)
6. Check for injuries to yourself, passengers, and other parties

**Step 2: Call Emergency Services (if needed)**
Call 112 immediately if:
- Anyone is injured (regardless of severity)
- Anyone shows signs of alcohol or drug intoxication
- Someone is trapped in a vehicle
- There is a risk of fire or hazmat spill
- The scene poses danger to other traffic

When calling 112, provide:
- Exact location (street name, area, nearby landmarks, road number, km post, direction)
- Type of incident (car accident, number of vehicles)
- Number and condition of injured persons
- Your name and phone number
- Keep the line open; dispatcher may provide further instructions

**Step 3: Provide First Aid (if trained)**
- Provide basic first aid to injured persons if you are trained
- Move injured persons only if there is immediate danger (fire, traffic)
- Do not move a person with suspected spinal injuries
- Place them in recovery position if unconscious but breathing
- Keep the person warm while waiting for ambulance

**Step 4: Prevent Further Accidents**
- If it is safe and there are no seriously injured people, move vehicles off the roadway (if possible)
- Move to a safe location away from traffic
- On motorways, leave the carriageway and wait behind crash barriers

### Evidence to collect at the scene

**Photographs (take from multiple angles):**
- Overall scene of the accident
- Position of all vehicles involved
- Damage to each vehicle (close-ups and wide shots)
- License plates of all vehicles
- Relevant road signs and traffic lights
- Road conditions (wet, icy, debris)
- Traffic flow direction
- Any pedestrians or obstacles
- Road marks and debris
- Documents (ID, license, insurance papers)
- Any injuries visible
- Your vehicle's odometer reading (optional but helpful)

**Information about the other party:**
- Full name and surname
- Date of birth
- Residential address (city, street, building number)
- ID card/passport number and series
- Driving license number and issuing authority
- Contact phone number and email
- Insurance company name (OC insurer)
- Insurance policy number
- Vehicle registration number (VIN)
- Vehicle make, model, and color

> Take photos of all documents. You can verify the other party's OC insurance on UFG website.

**Information about witnesses:**
- Full names and surnames
- Phone numbers and email addresses
- Addresses
- Clear description of what they witnessed
- ID/passport numbers (if willing to provide)

**Accident details to note:**
- Exact date and time of accident
- Precise location (street name, building number, intersection)
- Road type (highway, local road, residential area)
- Weather conditions (rain, snow, fog, dry)
- Road surface condition
- Traffic light status (if applicable)
- Detailed written description of how the accident occurred
- Sequence of events
- Speed estimates (if known)
- Any third vehicle involved

### European Protocol and accident statement

**What is the European Protocol?**
The European Protocol (called *Wspólne Oświadczenie o Zdarzeniu Drogowym* in Polish) is a standardized accident report form. It is recognized across all European Union countries. It is not an official police report, but a joint statement by the parties involved.

**When to use the European Protocol:**
- No one is injured
- Both parties are present
- Both parties agree on the facts of the accident
- Both parties agree who is at fault
- Both parties have valid insurance
- There is no suspicion of intoxication

**Filling out the European Protocol:**

**Section 1: Personal data of both parties**
- Full names and surnames
- Residential addresses
- Phone numbers and emails
- ID card/passport numbers and series
- Driving license numbers and categories

**Section 2: Vehicle information**
- Vehicle make and model
- Vehicle color
- License plate number
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Name of insurance company
- Insurance policy number
- Duration of valid insurance

**Section 3: Accident details**
- Date and time of accident
- Exact location with street name and number
- Description of accident circumstances
- Cause of collision
- Road conditions
- Clear identification of the at-fault party
- Sketch or diagram of the accident (if possible)

**Section 4: Damage description**
- Detailed description of damage to each vehicle
- Approximate damage amount (if known)
- Damage location on vehicle (front, rear, side)
- Type of damage (dents, scratches, broken parts)

**Section 5: Signatures**
- Both parties must sign each page
- Both parties must initial the number of boxes checked
- Do not sign if you disagree with any statement
- Keep a copy for your records

**If you don't have a printed form:**
You can write a statement by hand that includes all the information listed above. Write in clear, legible handwriting. Both parties must sign. Date and time it. Get witnesses if available.

**Important notes on the European Protocol:**

Do NOT:
- Sign if you don't fully understand it
- Sign if you don't agree with the description
- Admit fault unless you are completely at fault
- Sign if the other party is intoxicated
- Sign if damage is unclear or disputed

DO:
- Take a photo of the completed form before signing
- Keep a copy for your records
- Request the other party's copy
- Add a note if you disagree with any statement
- Collect copies of all insurance documents

### Information to collect if police are called

**When police arrive:**
1. Be polite and cooperative
   - Remain calm and respectful
   - Follow all police instructions
   - Do not interfere with police work

2. Provide your statement
   - Give a clear, factual description of events
   - Stick to what you observed, not assumptions
   - Provide truthful information about your actions
   - You have the right to legal representation

3. Request police report information
   - Ask for the police report number
   - Request the names and badge numbers of attending officers
   - Ask where and when you can obtain a copy of the official report
   - Note the police station that handled the case
   - Request contact information for insurance-related follow-up

4. Document the process
   - Take notes of what police document
   - Note the time they arrived
   - Record any sobriety tests if applicable
   - Note if photos were taken by police

**Police report contents:**
The official police report will include:
- Accident date, time, and location
- Detailed description of what happened
- Names and statements of all parties
- Witness statements
- Police officer's observations
- Vehicle damage descriptions
- Traffic violation citations (if any)
- Investigation conclusions
- Report number for insurance purposes

### Post-accident steps

**Step 1: Document medical injuries (if any)**

Immediately after accident:
- See a doctor even if you feel okay
- Injuries may develop within 24-48 hours
- Request a medical certificate documenting any injuries
- Keep all medical receipts and prescriptions
- Request copies of medical records

> Many insurance claims for injuries require medical documentation. Do not delay medical attention.

**Step 2: Contact your insurance company**

Timing: Contact within 24-48 hours of the accident. Check your policy for specific requirements.

Information to provide:
- Accident date, time, and location
- Names and contact details of other parties
- Police report number (if police attended)
- Description of what happened
- European Protocol or accident statement (if completed)
- Photos from the scene
- Witness contact information
- Any injuries or medical treatment

Insurance company actions:
- Review your claim and supporting documents
- May arrange damage assessment by inspector
- Calculate compensation amount
- Propose repair workshop or compensation options

**Compensation options:**

**Option 1: Wariant Warsztatowy (Workshop Option)**
- Insurance arranges vehicle repair
- You take vehicle to approved repair shop
- Repairs are fully covered by insurance
- No out-of-pocket expenses for repairs

**Option 2: Wariant Kosztorysowy (Estimate Option)**
- Insurance provides cash compensation
- You arrange repairs yourself
- Compensation covers actual repair costs
- May include towing, rental car, and other expenses

**Standard insurance timeline:**
- 30 days: Insurance must provide compensation offer
- 60 days: Insurance must complete investigation and make final decision
- Police documentation speeds up this process (usually 15-30 days)

### For migrants and non-residents

**Understanding key terms:**
- **OC PPM** = Compulsory third-party liability insurance
- **CTPCI** = Compulsory third-party civil liability insurance
- **Green Card** = International insurance certificate
- **UFG** = Insurance Guarantee Fund
- **PBUK** = Polish Motor Insurers' Bureau

**Insurance requirements for non-residents:**

**If you have a non-Polish vehicle (e.g., from Ukraine, Belarus, etc.):**

**Option 1: Green Card**
- Valid international insurance certificate
- Confirms that your home country insurance covers Poland
- Issued by your home country's insurance company
- Valid for 15 days to 12 months
- If you have a Green Card, no additional Polish insurance needed

**Option 2: Border/Temporary Polish Insurance**
- Required if you don't have a Green Card
- Purchased at Polish insurance office or border crossing
- Valid for 30 days to 12 months
- Must be obtained before entering Poland
- Cost varies by insurance company and coverage period

**Where to buy border insurance:**
- Any Polish insurance company
- Insurance offices throughout Poland
- Insurance desks at major border crossings
- Online through insurance company websites

**Polish insurance companies offering border insurance:**
- Ergo Hestia: +48 58 766 34 04
- PZU: +48 22 505 15 63
- Warta: +48 814 607 900
- Allianz: +48 22 564 06 01

> Many Polish insurance companies offered free border insurance for 30 days to Ukrainian refugees. Check current availability by calling the numbers above.

**If you have a Polish vehicle:**
If you own or operate a Polish-registered vehicle:
- Compulsory insurance (OC) is mandatory
- Must be current and valid
- Lack of valid insurance results in heavy fines

**Driving license requirements for non-residents:**

**EU/EFTA citizens:**
- Your EU/EFTA driving license is valid in Poland indefinitely
- No exchange needed
- No International Driving Permit (IDP) required
- Valid for driving all vehicle categories listed on your license

**Non-EU/EFTA citizens (including Ukrainians):**

Validity period:
- Your foreign driving license is valid for 183 days (approximately 6 months) from the date you obtain residence rights in Poland
- After 183 days, you must exchange your license for a Polish one

Requirements for driving with non-EU license:

Recommended (highly advised):
- Carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your national license
- IDP serves as official translation into multiple languages
- Facilitates police verification
- Obtained in your home country before arriving in Poland

Required (mandatory) in some cases:
- If your national license does not conform to the 1949 Geneva Convention or 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, you must carry:
  - Your original national driving license
  - A valid International Driving Permit (IDP)
- Both documents must be carried at all times

> Working as a taxi driver, Uber driver, Bolt driver, or other professional driver requires a Polish driving license. Foreign licenses are NOT permitted for commercial passenger transport services.

**What to do after an accident if you're a non-resident:**

**Step 1: Safety and emergency (same as all drivers)**
- Call 112 if anyone is injured
- Move to safety
- Collect evidence

**Step 2: Insurance information - know your options**

If you caused damage with a car from your home country:

**Scenario A: You have Green Card insurance**
- Contact the claims department of the Green Card insurance company
- Provide policy number and accident details
- Claims handled by your home country insurer
- Your insurer pays compensation from Poland (if at fault)

**Scenario B: You have Polish border insurance**
- Contact the Polish insurance company that issued your border policy
- Provide policy number and accident details
- Polish insurer handles the claim
- Processing follows standard Polish procedures

**Scenario C: You have no valid insurance**
- The Insurance Guarantee Fund (UFG) will cover the damage to the other party
- After paying, UFG will demand full reimbursement from you (insurance recourse claim)
- If you don't pay, UFG may pursue legal action
- You face significant fines (see penalties section)

**Step 3: Police report considerations**

When police arrive, important considerations for non-residents:

Language barrier:
- Request a police interpreter if you don't speak Polish
- Some police stations have English-speaking officers
- You can request assistance from a lawyer

Your rights:
- You have the right to understand all documents presented to you
- You can refuse to sign documents you don't understand
- You can request translations or clarifications
- You have the right to legal representation

Important documentation:
- Ask for the police report number for insurance purposes
- Request information on how to obtain a copy
- Get contact details of the police station handling your case
- Document the names and badge numbers of attending officers

**Step 4: Communication with insurance companies**

Language considerations:
- Many insurance companies have multilingual staff
- Request an English-speaking representative if available
- Some insurance companies offer assistance in Ukrainian, Russian, and other languages
- Ask about translated documents for your records

Follow-up on your claim:
- Keep copies of all correspondence (emails, letters, SMS)
- Note dates of all phone calls and names of representatives
- Document any deadlines mentioned
- Request written confirmation of claim status

**Step 5: Obtaining medical treatment**

If injured:
- You have the same medical rights as Polish citizens
- Emergency medical care is available to all
- Contact a doctor immediately (within 24 hours)
- Keep all medical documentation and receipts
- Include medical costs in your insurance claim

Finding medical care:
- Emergency: Call 112
- Non-emergency: Visit nearest hospital or clinic
- Private clinics are available for faster treatment
- Keep all prescriptions and medical records

**Compensation for non-residents:**

You can claim compensation if:
- You were injured or your property (vehicle) was damaged in an accident
- Another driver was at fault
- The at-fault driver has valid insurance

Compensation covers:
- Vehicle repair costs
- Vehicle rental fees during repairs
- Medical treatment costs
- Lost income from time unable to work
- Moral damages for pain and suffering
- Transportation and towing costs

### Insurance Guarantee Fund (UFG)

**What is the Insurance Guarantee Fund (UFG)?**

The UFG is a Polish institution that protects accident victims when:
- The at-fault driver has no valid insurance
- The at-fault driver cannot be identified (hit-and-run)
- An insurance company becomes insolvent

**How to file a claim with UFG:**

**Step 1: Gather documentation**
- Police accident report (essential)
- Photos from accident scene
- Medical records (if injured)
- Repair quotes or invoices
- Proof of insurance (if you have it)
- All correspondence with the at-fault driver

**Step 2: Submit claim to UFG**
- Complete UFG claim form
- Attach all supporting documents
- Include clear description of circumstances
- Specify all damages and costs
- Provide evidence of loss

**Step 3: UFG investigation**
- UFG will verify the accident details
- May contact witnesses
- Will assess the claim validity
- May request additional information

**Step 4: UFG decision**
- UFG determines compensation amount
- Pays approved compensation to claimant
- Issues recourse claim to at-fault driver
- UFG pursues at-fault driver for reimbursement

**Compensation limits from UFG:**
The UFG has maximum compensation limits per accident and per claimant. Check current limits on www.ufg.pl

**UFG contact:**
- Website: www.ufg.pl (some information in English)
- Polish Motor Insurers' Bureau (PBUK): www.pbuk.pl
- Available for cross-border accident assistance

### Penalties and fines in Poland

**Penalties for lack of valid insurance:**

As of 2025, fines for driving without valid insurance:

**Passenger cars:**
- Up to 3 days without insurance: PLN 1,870
- 4 to 14 days without insurance: PLN 4,670
- More than 14 days without insurance: PLN 9,330

**Trucks and buses:**
- Up to 3 days: PLN 2,800
- 4 to 14 days: PLN 7,000
- More than 14 days: PLN 14,000

**Motorcycles and mopeds:**
- Up to 3 days: PLN 310
- 4 to 14 days: PLN 780
- More than 14 days: PLN 1,560

> Fines are imposed for each day of insurance interruption.

**Penalties for other serious violations:**

**Failing to stop after an accident:**
- Fine: up to PLN 5,000
- Penalty points: 15 points
- Possible driving license suspension
- Criminal liability possible

**Fleeing the accident scene:**
- Criminal offense
- Prison sentence possible
- Driving license suspension
- Civil and criminal liability

**Causing injury while breaking traffic rules:**
- Up to 3 years imprisonment
- If death results: 6 months to 8 years imprisonment
- Automatic license suspension
- Mandatory compensation to victims

**Driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs:**
- Fine: minimum PLN 2,500
- Penalty points: 15 points
- Driving license suspension: 6 months to 3 years
- Vehicle may be confiscated
- Criminal record possible
- Prison sentence possible in serious cases

**Penalty points system:**

**Penalty point limits:**
- Experienced drivers (license for more than 1 year): 24 points maximum
- Novice drivers (license for less than 1 year): 20 points maximum
- Exceeding the limit results in automatic license suspension

**Point expiration:**
- Penalty points are removed 12 months after paying the fine
- Points do not expire after receiving the fine, only after payment
- If you don't pay the fine, points don't expire

### Special circumstances

**Hit-and-run accidents (leaving the scene):**

If you witness a hit-and-run:
1. Call police immediately (112)
2. Write down the vehicle description and license plate (if visible)
3. Note the location and time
4. Get contact information from other witnesses
5. Take photos of the scene if safe
6. Provide detailed statement to police

If you hit something and left the scene:
- Report it to police immediately
- Return to the scene if possible
- This reduces penalties
- Cooperating demonstrates responsibility to court

**Penalties for fleeing:**
- Criminal charges
- Prison time possible
- Heavy fines
- License suspension
- Insurance denial of coverage
- Permanent criminal record

**Accidents involving pedestrians or cyclists:**

Immediate actions:
1. Call 112 immediately
2. Provide first aid if trained
3. Do not move injured person unless in immediate danger
4. Stay at scene until police arrive
5. Collect witness information
6. Document scene thoroughly

Liability:
- Drivers have heightened duty of care to vulnerable road users
- Presumption often favors pedestrian/cyclist
- Penalties are typically more severe
- Insurance claims are treated with priority
- Criminal liability more likely

**Accidents in bad weather or poor visibility:**

Evidence collection:
- Document weather conditions in photos
- Note visibility levels
- Record road surface conditions (wet, icy, snow)
- Take photos showing any weather warnings on signs
- Note time of day and lighting conditions

Legal considerations:
- Poor visibility affects fault determination
- Duty to adjust driving to conditions
- Speed limits apply regardless of weather
- Special precautions required in poor conditions

**Parking lot and low-speed accidents:**

Police involvement:
- Usually not required for minor parking damage
- European Protocol often sufficient
- However, police involvement recommended if:
  - Other driver is uncooperative
  - Damage is extensive
  - Hit-and-run situation
  - Disagreement about fault

Witness importance:
- More critical in parking areas without CCTV
- Security camera footage may be available from nearby businesses
- Request footage if accident occurred at shopping mall, restaurant, or facility

### Legal considerations and liability

**Criminal liability after accidents:**

When criminal liability may apply:
- If an accident results in injury to another person
- If you violated traffic safety rules that led to the accident
- If you caused serious injury or death
- If you fled the scene of the accident
- If you were driving under the influence

Possible criminal penalties:
- Injury accident: Up to 3 years imprisonment
- Serious injury or death: 6 months to 8 years imprisonment
- Hit-and-run: Prison and license suspension
- Criminal record implications for employment and travel

**Civil liability:**

You are liable for:
- Repair or replacement of damaged property
- Medical expenses and ongoing care
- Lost wages during recovery
- Vehicle rental during repairs
- Pain and suffering damages
- Any other damages directly caused by the accident

Liability insurance (OC) covers these costs if you are at fault and insured.

**Personal injury considerations:**

If you are injured:
- Seek immediate medical attention
- Keep all medical documentation
- Document all medical expenses
- Report all injuries to your insurance company
- Do not accept settlement offers without legal advice
- Consider consulting a personal injury lawyer

Compensation may include:
- Medical treatment costs
- Medication and rehabilitation
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability compensation
- Emotional trauma damages

**When to consider legal assistance:**

Consult a lawyer if:
- You are injured and considering compensation claims
- The other party disputes fault
- Insurance company denies your claim or offers inadequate compensation
- Criminal charges are possible
- You don't understand Polish legal documents
- You need help with cross-border accident claims
- Settlement amounts seem unfair

### common mistakes
**Leaving the scene**
Stay until safe and duties fulfilled
---
**No documentation**
Take photos and get witnesses
---
**Not calling 112 when anyone is hurt**
Always call; give location, number of injured, hazards; provide first aid if safe.
---
**Wrong warning‑triangle placement**
Built‑up area: immediately behind the car; outside built‑up: 30–50 m; motorway/expressway: ~100 m.
---
**Admitting fault or signing unclear papers**
Describe facts; use the European Accident Statement; sign only if both agree.
---
**Not notifying your insurer promptly**
Report within 24-48 hours; check your policy for specific deadlines; keep all evidence.
---
**Moving vehicles incorrectly**
If injuries: leave vehicles in place and mark the scene. If only a collision: move to a safe spot after marking.
---
**Not seeking medical attention immediately**
See a doctor even if you feel okay; injuries may develop within 24-48 hours; medical documentation is essential for claims.
---
**Signing European Protocol without understanding**
Do not sign if you disagree with description; take photo before signing; keep a copy for your records.
---
**Not requesting police report number**
Always ask for police report number, officer names and badge numbers, and where to obtain a copy.

### checklist

**Ensure safety**
---
**Check for injuries**
---
**Call 112**
if needed
---
**Provide first aid**
Only if you are trained.
---
**Move vehicles**
If it's only a collision (no injuries)
---
**Document the scene**
Damage, road marks, documents, injuries .. 
---
**Exchange details**
Get full names, phone numbers, addresses, driver license
---
**Collect witness information**
Get full names, phone numbers, addresses
---
**Fill accident report**
---
**Call police**
if required
---
**Request police report information**
---
**See a doctor**
if injured
---
**Notify your insurer/assistance**
---
**Keep all documents**


### links
[112 info](https://www.gov.pl/web/112)
[European Accident Statement (PL/EN) — PBUK](https://www.pbuk.pl/pl/wspolne-oswiadczenie-o-zdarzeniu-drogowym)
[Check mandatory liability insurance (OC) — UFG](https://www.ufg.pl/)
[Polish Police — information](https://www.policja.pl/)
[Polish Motor Insurers' Bureau (PBUK)](https://www.pbuk.pl/)
[Insurance Guarantee Fund (UFG)](https://www.ufg.pl/)
[Polish Chamber of Insurance (PIU)](https://www.piu.org.pl/)
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