Scenic Drives in Poland

Warsaw, Poznan, Krakow and Wroclaw - these cities are among the most visited in Poland. This is not surprising, as each of these places boasts breathtaking sights, beautiful parks, countless cultural institutions and niches that can be described as natural wonders.

There is an abundance of such gems on the Polish map and you will encounter them everywhere. The northern part of the country has the famous Tricity (Gdańsk, Gdynia, Sopot) and the Elbląg Canal, while the southern part has Częstochowa (Czestochowa) and Jasna Góra and Wieliczka with its famous salt mines.

Toruń with its medieval town, Książ with its beautiful castle from the 13th century and Ostróda with various sights are places that will delight all vacationers. A highlight you must have seen is of course Malbork with an excellent castle complex and Pelplin with many religious buildings. Gniezno, the first capital of Poland, is also not to be missed.

Luckily, Poland is notorious for having one of the highest accident rates, far behind other European countries. Polish drivers drive quite aggressively and tend to exceed speed limits and yield the right of way. In addition, few of them use the zipper method, which helps to calm traffic when necessary.

As you travel through Poland, you are bound to encounter unguarded level crossings. When approaching one of them, it is worth being extra careful and stopping in front of the train tracks. Another important point is the right of way for emergency vehicles and buses leaving the bus stop.

What measures should I take in the event of a traffic accident or collision? In the latter case (no injuries), it is sufficient to remove the vehicle from the road (if possible) and prepare a corresponding written statement. If you have trouble identifying the offender, it is essential to call the police (112 or 997). In a traffic accident, somewhat stricter procedures are used. You should immediately call the police or an ambulance (112 or 999) and secure the accident scene with hazard triangles. If possible, try to provide first aid to the injured person.

When it comes to speed limits in Poland, you are allowed to drive between 20 and 140 km/h, depending on the type of road. The former applies in urban areas, the latter on highways. The top speed is 100 km / h on single-lane highways and up to 120 km / h on dual-lane highways. In rural areas, you may not drive faster than 90 km / h.

The speed limit in built-up areas decreases according to the time of day. From 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. it is 50 km / h, while from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. you can drive up to 60 km / h. You can be fined if you drive far above the speed limit, but you can also expect to have your driver's license confiscated.

And you can expect to have your license confiscated.

Every vehicle driving on Polish roads must be equipped with a warning triangle and a fire extinguisher. We also recommend a safety vest, a set of spare lamps, a first aid kit and a spare tire, as well as the necessary tools. At a traffic control, you will be asked to show documents such as your driver's license, liability insurance, registration certificate, vehicle registration certificate and your identity card or passport.

Use of Polish highways is subject to a fee. But as in other European countries, drivers do not have to carry vignettes. The toll is paid at special gates (it is possible to pay by credit card or cash) and depends on the length of the section of highway you want to use.

Fines and penalty points are to be expected for speeding, right of way violation, driving under the influence (maximum 0.02%) and phone calls while driving. Remember to ensure the safety of your youngest passengers - children under 12, who are smaller than 150 cm and lighter than 36 kg, should only travel in special child seats. Also remember that dipped headlights should be used in all seasons and regardless of the time of day. You may be ticketed or wheel clamped for parking your vehicle in unauthorized places. At worst, the police will tow your car at your expense.