Have you been involved in a road traffic accident in Poland while travelling for tourism, business, or private purposes? Are you wondering whether you can obtain compensation even though you reside abroad? The answer is yes.

Every year, many foreign nationals are involved in road traffic accidents in Poland. Whether you were the driver of a vehicle, a passenger, a pedestrian, or a cyclist, you have legal rights and may be entitled to compensation for the losses and injuries you have suffered.

In this article, we explain how the compensation procedure works in Poland, what types of damages may be claimed, and why it is often advisable to seek assistance from a lawyer who is familiar with both Polish law and the needs of international clients.

Can a Foreign National Obtain Compensation After a Road Traffic Accident in Poland?

Yes. Your right to compensation does not depend on your nationality or your country of residence.

If the accident occurred in Poland and was caused by another road user, you may pursue compensation under Polish law. This applies equally to drivers, passengers, motorcyclists, cyclists, and pedestrians.

Whether you were visiting Poland for a few days or staying here on a regular basis, you are entitled to the same legal protection as a person residing in Poland.

How Can You Obtain Compensation Following a Road Traffic Accident in Poland?

The first step is to establish the circumstances of the accident and collect all available evidence demonstrating both the other party’s liability and the extent of the damage suffered.

If your medical condition allows, it is advisable to call the police so that an official accident report can be prepared. You should also keep the contact details of any witnesses, take photographs of the accident scene and the vehicles involved, and retain all medical records relating to your treatment.

These documents will play a crucial role when submitting a compensation claim to the insurer of the person responsible for the accident.

What Types of Damage Can Be Compensated?

Contrary to popular belief, compensation is not limited to reimbursement of medical expenses.

Under Polish law, an injured party may seek compensation for all consequences of the accident. Depending on the circumstances, this may include reimbursement of hospital expenses, medical consultations, rehabilitation costs, medication, medical equipment, and travel expenses incurred in connection with medical treatment.

Where the victim has suffered a temporary or permanent inability to work, compensation for loss of earnings may also be claimed.

In addition, the injured person may seek compensation for non-material damage (pain and suffering), intended to compensate for the physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the accident. The amount awarded depends, among other things, on the severity of the injuries, the duration of treatment, any permanent disability, and the impact of the injuries on the victim’s personal and professional life.

Is It Necessary to Return to Poland to Pursue a Compensation Claim?

In most cases, the answer is no.

Today, the majority of the procedure can be carried out remotely. Communication with your lawyer may take place by telephone or video conference, documents can be exchanged electronically, and your lawyer may represent you before insurance companies and Polish courts.

This allows victims residing abroad to assert their rights effectively without having to make repeated trips to Poland.

Why Should You Instruct a Lawyer?

Insurance companies sometimes offer compensation that does not fully reflect the damage suffered. An inadequate assessment of the injuries or the omission of certain heads of damage may result in compensation that is significantly lower than the amount to which the victim is legally entitled.

A lawyer can carefully assess your case, identify all the compensation to which you are entitled, and protect your interests throughout the entire process, whether during negotiations with the insurance company or in court proceedings.