Drunk driver arrested despite court ban in Biała Podlaska

14 July 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

A drunk driver under court ban was stopped at a Biała Podlaska petrol station after a witness called police. He now faces up to five years in prison.

A drunk driver under court ban was stopped at a Biała Podlaska petrol station on Sunday. A witness called police after seeing him buy alcohol and return to his car.

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Drunk driver under court ban: what happened

Police in Biała Podlaska received a report on a Toyota at a local station. Consequently, officers went to the scene quickly. Moreover, they found a 53-year-old man sitting behind the wheel. In addition, a visibly intoxicated passenger sat beside him. However, the driver denied he had driven that day. Therefore, officers checked his records and found an active court ban on driving. As a result, they noted an administrative decision that rescinded his licence.

Officers smelled alcohol on the man and observed behaviour that suggested strong intoxication. Consequently, they took a blood sample for testing. Moreover, the police towed the Toyota to a guarded lot. In addition, they placed the man in custody overnight. The next day, he admitted guilt and faced charges. Therefore, prosecutors charged him with driving while intoxicated and disobeying a court order. He faces up to five years in prison under Polish law.

Police, witness action and legal consequences

The arrest highlights how citizen reports can stop dangerous drivers. Consequently, the local commander publicly thanked the witness. Moreover, police said the intervention likely prevented harm. In addition, they warned the public that intoxicated drivers pose a deadly threat. However, police stressed everyone has a role in road safety. Therefore, they encouraged people to call 112 with details such as registration plates and the location.

Under Polish law, courts can impose a ‘sądowy zakaz kierowania pojazdami’ or court driving ban. Consequently, violating such a ban escalates penalties. Moreover, authorities can also use administrative tools to withdraw driving rights. In addition, tests and evidence include blood sampling and witness statements. Therefore, convictions can lead to prison time and long-term bans. As a result, courts seek to deter repeat offenders.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: If you see a suspected drunk driver, call 112 and give clear details. Moreover, stay safe and do not confront the person. In Poland, PESEL is the national ID number, ZUS is the social insurance institution, NFZ runs public healthcare, and “mandat” means a fine. In addition, police often request blood tests and can detain drivers for questioning. Finally, keep a note of the time and place, and if possible take a photo of the vehicle from a safe distance.

The Biała Podlaska case reminds residents and visitors that laws work aggressively against repeat offenders. Consequently, the accused admitted guilt and faces legal proceedings. Moreover, the police emphasized community responsibility for road safety. Therefore, expats should learn local emergency numbers and the basics of Polish traffic law. As a result, they can act confidently if they witness dangerous behaviour.

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