Over the long weekend in Poland, 65 people died in traffic accidents and 801 people were injured in 612 serious accidents reported.

Police patrols caught 2683 persons driving under the influence of alcohol.

This marks a significant increase in all categories compared to last year’s long weekend during the same period, inspector Mariusz Sokolowski from the National Police Headquarters told Polish Radio.  

“Despite repeated appeals, many drivers displayed an aggressive style of driving, breaking speed limits, careless overtaking, and a disregard for road safety,” said Sokolowski. “Some try to reach their destinations with a total disrespect for their own safety and that of others. This creates extremely hazardous situations.” 

Poor weather conditions over the extended weekend was one of the factors contributing to the record number of road accidents and casualties. But the almost one third increase in the number of intoxicated drivers detained during standard road checks is the most worrying factor, say police, despite some of the harshest penalties in Europe for drink driving.  (ss/pg)