Senator Left ignores the problem of drunk drivers: “Everyone happens”

Senator Waldemar Witkowski's last message about drunk drivers caused a storm on social media. In a conversation on tv Republika, referring to the 2019 case, erstwhile Richard Kalisz's wife was detained for driving a car with 2.5 blood alcohol, the politician stated that “everyone happens”. These words, despite their subsequent explanation, sparked a broad discussion on the perception of alcohol driving in Poland.

Is it a bantalization or a voice on a case?

Senator Witkowski answered:
– That's sad. It happens to everyone. There is simply a tradition in Poland (...). She's not the first and most likely not the last, even though the penalties are severe..

In the further part of the policy discussion, he added:
– It shouldn't be, but it happens to everyone. Let him strike upon the breast who has not done so before.

These words were received by many as a downplaying of a serious problem. Driving under the influence of alcohol is not only a crime, but besides the main origin of fatal road accidents in Poland. Reactions to these statements were immediate and criticism fell from both the opposition and citizens.

"Small beer is different" – improvement in online discussion

Witkowski continued the subject in social media. He stated that in many European countries the authorised amount of alcohol in the driver's blood ranges from 0.5 to 0.8, while in Poland the limit is 0.2. In his view, the limits should be harmonised:
– This should be harmonised, especially as many drugs work similarly, I do not mention drugs.

When he was reminded that Kalisz's wife had a 2.5-promile, the politician replied:
– You gotta perceive with understanding, I condemned it, but an occasional glass of wine or a tiny beer is different..

These comments were even more outraged due to the fact that many people felt that they could afford to ignore traffic regulations.

A common problem, but is that an excuse?

The Senator stressed that driving under the influence of alcohol is simply a common phenomenon in Poland. He cited statistic that said that about half a million drunk drivers halt each year, and that the number of specified cases may actually be much higher.
– This common phenomenon and punishment itself will not change that Witkowski wrote.

Senator's explanations and reactions to his words

After a wave of criticism, the senator pointed out that his message was out of context:
– I repeat: this is irresponsible and shameful! said on Twitter.

Paulina Matysiak of the Left besides referred to the case, which announced the invitation of Witkowski to the gathering of the parliamentary road safety team:
– I hope he joins the team!

Do you request a change of approach?

Senator Witkowski's words sparked an crucial social debate on tolerance towards drunk drivers in Poland. According to statistic of the European Transport Safety Council, Poland is 1 of the countries where the problem of drinking remains alarming. Discussing the senator's speech can become an impulse to initiate fresh educational activities and tighten criminal policy against intoxicated drivers.

Summary

Public criticism of the problem is outraged due to the fact that it can affect public perception of the problem. Road safety requires a clear condemnation of alcohol driving and effective action to destruct this phenomenon. Senator Witkowski's statements are an example of the importance of the precise formulation of opinions by politicians, especially in matters of specified importance to society.

— halt Cham Warsaw (@Stop_Cham_W_wa) December 24, 2024