Winter Car Care: Avoid Fines and Ensure Safety on Polish Roads
Winter is a challenging season for car owners in Poland. Snow, mud, and road salt can make vehicles dirty in no time. While many drivers avoid car washes, thinking it’s an unnecessary expense, this decision can cost them dearly. Neglecting car maintenance can result in hefty fines, and even affect safety on Polish roads.
Can You Get Fined for a Dirty Car?
Although Polish law doesn’t explicitly state that drivers must keep their vehicles clean, dirty windshields, lights, or license plates can be reasons for fines. According to Article 66 of the Road Traffic Act, a vehicle on the road must ensure proper visibility and safety. If your windshield is covered in mud or your license plate is obscured, an officer can issue a fine of up to PLN 3,000.
Dirty Lights and License Plates: Additional Fines
Dirty headlights and rear lights can be considered a hazard to other road users. Dimmed lights reduce visibility, and in the case of modern LED headlights, can even blind other drivers. An officer can fine you:
* PLN 500 for obscured license plates
* PLN 300 for dirty or covered lights
It’s essential to prioritize car washing, especially if you drive in harsh weather conditions.
Fines for Cluttered Cars: Who’s Affected?
While the idea of fining drivers for a cluttered interior might seem absurd, some groups, like bus drivers, taxi drivers, or bus operators, must maintain their vehicles in a sanitary condition. According to the Code of Offences (Article 117), a carrier who fails to do so can be fined up to PLN 1,500.
How to Care for Your Car in Winter
To avoid problems with the police and potential fines, regular car washing is essential. Here are some tips:
* Hand washing: the most detailed option, although time-consuming and costly. Ideal for thorough cleaning of the body, windshield, and lights.
* Touchless car wash: quick and convenient, perfect for removing mud and road salt from essential car parts.
* Undercarriage washing: crucial in winter to prevent corrosion caused by road salt. Make sure to thoroughly rinse door sills, mudguards, and crevices.
* Exercise caution in freezing temperatures: washing your car in cold weather can cause water to freeze in crevices, leading to damage.
Take Care of Your Car, Avoid Fines, and Ensure Safety
A dirty car is not only a risk of fines but also a hazard on Polish roads. Dirty windshields and lights reduce visibility, while obscured license plates can lead to additional problems. Regular car washing is a small cost compared to potential fines of up to PLN 3,000.
Remember, by taking care of your car’s cleanliness, you not only avoid unpleasant situations with the police but also increase safety for yourself and other road users. Is it worth the risk? The answer seems obvious.