Drunk Saab driver causes three-car crash in Lublin

12 May 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

A drunk Saab driver in Lublin caused a three-car crash on May 11. Read details and practical advice for expats.

A drunk Saab driver in Lublin caused a three-car collision before dawn on Monday, May 11. Police arrived at the junction of Wojciechowska, Bohaterów Monte Cassino and al. Mazowieckiego at around 4:00 a.m.

Table of Contents

What happened at the intersection

The Saab drove along Wojciechowska from Morwowa towards Lipniak. However, the driver failed to follow signage when entering a signalised intersection that was not yet operating. Consequently, the Saab struck a Kia traveling on al. Mazowieckiego toward al. Kraśnicka. Moreover, the Kia was pushed into a waiting Mercedes that prepared to enter from Lipniak. Fortunately, no one suffered injuries in the crash. Police carried out on-site checks and traffic slowed for several dozen minutes.

drunk Saab driver in Lublin

Police said the Saab driver tested positive for alcohol. In addition, the breath test showed more than 0.5 per mille. Therefore, officers treat the case seriously and they continue to collect evidence. However, investigators will determine whether the intoxication caused criminal charges. Moreover, the scene photos and witness statements will help clarify fault. The local report indicates the traffic signal had not resumed operation at the time.

Why this matters for expats

Road rules in Poland differ from some other countries. For example, Poland sets a low legal blood alcohol threshold for drivers, and exceeding roughly 0.2 per mille can trigger penalties. Moreover, driving above 0.5 per mille can bring criminal consequences, including fines and possible imprisonment. Therefore, expats should take extra care and avoid driving after drinking.

If you ever face a similar crash, call emergency number 112 first. In addition, wait for police to arrive and ask for a police report. The report helps when you contact your insurer. Note that OC insurance means third-party liability insurance. Furthermore, you may need identity details such as a passport or PESEL (national ID number). Moreover, healthcare is provided under NFZ (National Health Fund), while social benefits come via ZUS (social security), but those do not replace accident reporting duties.

Also, collect photos and witness contacts at the scene. Consequently, your insurer can process claims faster. However, language can create delays. Therefore, consider a translator or ask for an English-speaking officer if available. In addition, keep copies of any fines or official documents called ‘mandat’ (fine) for your records.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: If you are involved in a crash, stay at the scene and call 112. Ask police for a written report and exchange insurance (OC) details. Keep photos and witness names. Remember that a “mandat” means a fine, PESEL is the national ID, NFZ covers public healthcare, and ZUS handles social security. Moreover, contact your insurer and embassy if you need help with language or legal steps.

Source: Read original article

📚 Looking for more help settling in Poland? Browse our complete Expat Guides.