Police checks have begun. These two items must be in every car.

With the start of the spring and May holiday travel season, increased road checks have begun. Police are checking whether drivers have the required equipment in their cars. Failure to carry the required items can result in a fine, and in the event of a breakdown, serious roadblocks.

The upcoming May long weekend is a time of intense travel and increased road traffic. Before a long trip, it's worth not only planning your route but also checking your car's proper equipment. The absence of a mandatory warning triangle or fire extinguisher can cause serious problems.

The obligation to carry these items is regulated by the Minister of Infrastructure's regulation on the technical requirements for vehicles and the scope of their necessary equipment. Paragraph 11 of this document specifies that drivers must have "a triangle to be placed on the road, intended to warn of the presence of a stationary vehicle." This is not only a matter of legality but also a fundamental safety measure. Placing the triangle at the appropriate distance allows other road users to react appropriately.

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The triangle cannot be placed arbitrarily. According to the Road Traffic Act (Article 50), it must be placed 100 meters behind the vehicle on motorways and expressways, 30-50 meters outside built-up areas, and directly behind or on top of the vehicle in built-up areas. Failure to comply with this regulation may result in a fine of PLN 300 and one penalty point.

The driver should also carry a "fire extinguisher placed in a place that is easily accessible in case of emergency," the regulation states. Storing it under luggage may prevent quick access in an emergency. It is recommended to store it in a glove compartment or other easily accessible place. The regulations do not specify an expiration date for a fire extinguisher, but its inoperability may make it difficult to manage an emergency.

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For both required items, the vehicle user is responsible for their absence. Before traveling, it's worth checking whether a rented or borrowed car has both a warning triangle and a fire extinguisher. Failure to do so could result in a fine of up to 500 PLN during a roadside inspection . Increased roadside inspections during the season help identify such violations.

Not all vehicle equipment is regulated, but many can prove crucial in emergency situations. A first aid kit , for example, is formally optional (but failure to provide aid to an injured person can result in up to three years in prison), but in practice, it's incredibly useful. In the event of an accident or sudden road incident, even basic first aid supplies can provide minimal assistance before emergency services arrive.

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From a safety perspective, it's also a good idea to carry other accessories that help you cope in more challenging conditions. It's worth having spare bulbs, a reflective vest, a tow rope, or a flashlight on hand . These prove indispensable in many situations – especially on longer trips, at night, or in adverse weather.