New mandatory car equipment from 1 September. What do you have in the car?

Every driver in Poland should know the rules on mandatory car equipment. Whether you are an experienced driver or you are just starting your adventure with motorization, it is worth knowing what should be in your car. The deficiency of the equipment required may consequence not only in a mandate but besides in serious problems in the case of roadside inspection or accident. Check what you request to have in your car to avoid punishment.

Mandatory car equipment in Poland

In Poland, the regulations clearly specify what elements of equipment must be in each vehicle. It is worth remembering that the deficiency of 1 may lead to police imposing a mandate. Here is simply a list of things that are mandatory in each car:

1. Fire extinguisher:

• The fire extinguisher is 1 of the most crucial components of the vehicle equipment. It must be easy accessible and efficient, which means it cannot be expired. The minimum capacity of the fire extinguisher shall be 1 kg and shall be placed in a place to which the driver has fast access, e.g. under the passenger seat. The deficiency of a fire extinguisher may consequence in a fine of up to PLN 500.

1. Warning triangle:

• The informing triangle is essential in the event of an accident or accident. According to the regulations, the driver must set the triangle behind the vehicle at an appropriate distance (from 30 to 100 metres outside the built-up area and 1 metre behind the vehicle on the road and expressway). The absence or incorrect usage of a triangle may besides lead to the imposition of a mandate.

Auto equipment

What is worth having in a car, although it is not mandatory?

In addition to mandatory equipment, there are a number of another elements that are worth having in the car to increase safety and comfort of driving. Although they are not required by law, having them can prove highly useful in various situations on the road.

1. First aid kit:

• In Poland, the first aid kit is not compulsory, but it is worth having. In emergency cases, it can save lives, so it is good to supply a first aid kit with basic equipment specified as bandages, patches, scissors and disinfectants.

1. Reflector vest:

• Although there is no work to wear a reflective vest in Poland, it is required in many European countries. The vest may be invaluable in the event of a road failure, especially at night or at mediocre visibility.

1. Spare bulbs and fuses:

• Spare bulbs and fuses are further elements that may be useful in an emergency. The replacement of an on-site bulb may prevent the driver from driving with a bad lighting.

1. Spare wheel or repair kit:

• Although it is not mandatory, having a spare wheel or repair kit for tyres may prove to be life-saving if the tyre is punctured on the route. It is besides worth remembering about the lever and the key to the wheels.

1. Towing wire:

• Towing wire can be useful if you request to tow another vehicle or if your car fails.

What are the risks of deficiency of mandatory equipment?

The police can check that you have the required equipment during the traffic inspection. The absence of 1 of the mandatory elements may consequence in a ticket. In the case of a fire extinguisher, the punishment may be up to PLN 500 and for the absence of a informing triangle – up to PLN 300. It is worth remembering that even if the fire extinguisher is expired or not readily available, the officer may impose a fine on the driver.

How to avoid problems?

The best way to avoid problems and fines is to check your car equipment regularly. It is besides worth paying attention to the dates of validity of the fire extinguisher and first aid kits and the method condition of the informing triangle. Before a longer journey, always make certain you have all the required equipment in your car, as well as those that can be helpful in case of emergency.

Having a mandatory car equipment is not only a legal requirement, but besides a safety issue. Regular control of the method condition of the fire extinguisher and the informing triangle, as well as the addition of additional components specified as a first aid kit or a retro-reflector, can defend you from a ticket and supply peace of the way.