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

With the beginning of spring and May holidays, increased road checks have begun. Police check whether drivers have the required equipment in their cars. Lack of the required items may result in a ticket, and in the event of a breakdown - serious difficulties on the road.

The upcoming May Day holiday is a time of intensive travel and increased traffic on the roads. Before a longer trip, it is worth not only planning the route, but also checking whether the car is properly equipped. The lack of a mandatory warning triangle or fire extinguisher can cause serious problems.

The obligation to have these items is regulated by the regulation of the Minister of Infrastructure on the technical conditions of vehicles and the scope of their necessary equipment. Paragraph 11 of this document specifies that the driver 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 an element of basic safety. Placing the triangle at the appropriate distance allows other road users to react appropriately.

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The triangle cannot be placed in any place. According to the Road Traffic Act (Article 50), it should be placed 100 meters behind the vehicle on motorways and expressways, 30-50 meters outside built-up areas and directly behind the vehicle or on it 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 have a "fire extinguisher placed in a place that is easily accessible in case of need" - states the regulation. Storing it under luggage may prevent quick access in an emergency. It is recommended to place it in a glove compartment or another easily accessible place. The regulations do not specify the expiry date of the fire extinguisher, but its inefficiency may make it difficult to control an emergency situation.

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In the case of both required items, the vehicle user is responsible for their absence. Before traveling, it is worth checking whether the rented or borrowed car has both a warning triangle and a fire extinguisher. Otherwise, a fine of up to PLN 500 may be imposed during a road check . Increased road checks during the season help detect such deficiencies.

Not all vehicle equipment is regulated by law, but many of them may prove important in emergency situations. An example is a first aid kit - formally optional (but failure to provide assistance to the injured person can result in up to 3 years in prison), but in practice extremely useful. In the event of an accident or a sudden road incident, even basic dressings can provide minimum assistance before the arrival of the emergency services.

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From a safety perspective, it is also good to carry other accessories that make it easier to cope in more difficult conditions. It is worth having spare bulbs, a reflective vest, a tow rope or a flashlight on hand . In many situations, they are irreplaceable - especially on longer routes, at night or in unfavourable weather.