Nationwide Vehicle Lighting Checks Underway in Poland

In brief

• The 11th national campaign, 'Twoje Światła – Nasze Bezpieczeństwo,' has started in Poland to check vehicle lights for safety.
• Free inspections are available on specific dates throughout November and December.
• Police patrols will monitor vehicle lighting until 10 December, with potential fines up to 3,000 zloty.
• Poor lighting is especially dangerous during autumn due to reduced visibility and shorter days.

Campaign Launch and Objectives

The 11th edition of the nationwide campaign, 'Twoje Światła – Nasze Bezpieczeństwo', began after a briefing held at the Motor Transport Institute in Warsaw („Twoje światła - Nasze bezpieczeństwo” kampania na rzecz sprawnych świateł – Policja.pl). The initiative aims to draw drivers' attention to the risks associated with incorrect vehicle lighting. It is a joint effort of the Road Traffic Bureau of the National Police Headquarters and the Motor Transport Institute. Partners include the National Road Safety Council, the Polish Chamber of Vehicle Inspection Stations, the Polish Motor Union, the Łukasiewicz Research Network – Automotive Industry Institute, DEKRA Polska, Speed Car, and Yanosik. The campaign runs until 10 December (Od dziś policja rusza z akcją. Będą sprawdzać samochody i to, czy dobrze świecą – Auto Świat).

Free Inspection Opportunities

Drivers can have the lighting in their cars checked free of charge during the first of four scheduled phases of this year's campaign (Ruszyła akcja „Twoje Światła – Nasze Bezpieczeństwo” – TVP Wrocław). Free inspections are set for 7 and 21 November, and 5 December.

Safety Concerns in Autumn Conditions

Shorter days, fog, rain, wet road surfaces and reduced visibility make vehicle lighting especially important in autumn. Properly functioning and correctly adjusted lamps allow drivers to spot pedestrians, cyclists or obstacles on the road sooner, improving visibility and reaction times.

Enforcement and Penalties

Police patrols will increase their checks of vehicle lights for the duration of the campaign. Officers may verify that all lamps work and that headlights are aimed correctly, since improperly aimed beams can dazzle other road users. According to reports, a violation can result in a fine of up to 3,000 zloty. If the lights pose a danger, officers may confiscate the vehicle registration document and bar the driver from continuing the journey.