Drivers who fail to maintain continuous third-party liability insurance (OC) for their vehicles will face significantly higher penalties starting in 2027. The maximum fine, for a lapse of 14 days or more, will reach 9,900 PLN – double the projected minimum wage of 4,950 PLN gross. According to the Insurance Guarantee Fund (UFG), approximately 350,000 car owners are caught each year without valid OC.
The increase is a direct consequence of the government’s announcement that the minimum wage will rise by 3% in 2027, from the current level of 4,806 PLN to 4,950 PLN. Since penalty amounts for lacking OC are tied to the minimum wage, any change in the latter automatically affects the former. The UFG calculates the penalty based on how long the vehicle was uninsured, with the highest rate applied when the lapse is 14 days or longer.
The three penalty brackets for 2027 are: up to 3 days without OC – one third of the minimum wage, i.e. 1,650 PLN; from 4 to 13 days – one half, i.e. 2,475 PLN; and 14 days or more – the full double, i.e. 9,900 PLN. These figures were published by the UFG and reported by the automotive news site Autokult.
Why so many drivers ignore the obligation
Autokult notes that many cases of lapsed coverage result from ignorance rather than deliberate avoidance. – Some car owners mistakenly believe that a vehicle that is not being used does not need insurance. But even an unused car must have valid OC, and failing to maintain it can lead to a heavy fine – the portal reported, citing the UFG. The fund urges all car owners to check their policy status regularly, even if the car sits idle.
In addition to the financial penalty, driving without valid OC can result in being stopped by police and additional consequences. The UFG also reminds that the obligation to have insurance applies to all motor vehicles that are registered or operated on public roads, including trailers and motorcycles.
How to avoid the fine
The simplest way to avoid the penalty is to ensure continuous coverage. Policies automatically renew in most cases, but owners should confirm payment dates. If a policy lapses, it is best to renew immediately to minimise the gap. The UFG provides an online tool where drivers can check the status of their insurance.
With the minimum wage rising each year, the cost of neglecting OC will continue to grow. For the estimated 350,000 drivers caught annually, the bill could become substantial. The message is clear: keep your insurance active, even if you are not using your car.
Źródło: WNP.PL, Fot. Shutterstock/siekierski.photo
