Polish train drivers initiated a nationwide go-slow protest on Friday, September 11, 2026, by crossing every level crossing in the country at a maximum speed of 20 km/h. This action began at midnight and is set to continue until 24:00 local time, affecting all rail lines throughout Poland.
Fatal Accident at Sokolniki Suche Triggers Protest
The protest follows a fatal collision on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at the Sokolniki Suche level crossing, on the Lublin–Szczecin route. An Intercity train struck a concrete mixer lorry that entered the railway tracks while red warning lights were active. The level crossing lacked barriers. The crash derailed the locomotive and multiple
railcars.
A 39-year-old female passenger later died in hospital due to injuries sustained. The train driver and lorry driver were among several people seriously injured. Prosecutors have opened an investigation into negligent rail disaster, punishable by up to eight years in prison. Both drivers remain unable to be interviewed due to their health condition.
Union’s Safety Campaign Highlights Frequent Level Crossing Accidents
The Polish Locomotive Drivers’ Union (ZZM), led by Leszek Miętek, has long warned about safety risks at level crossings. Miętek noted that an accident occurs approximately every two days on Poland’s level crossings. The union has run an 18-month safety campaign titled “I want to live”
addressing illegal road vehicle incursions onto tracks and other hazards.
Just two days before the fatal crash, ZZM issued an appeal emphasizing rising severity of safety issues on the rail network. Miętek stated, “Wednesday’s accident came as no surprise to us,” but stressed that the recent tragedy marked a crossing of a “red line.”
Government Vows Urgent Legislative Action Following Accident
In response to the accident and protest, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk called for immediate tightening of penalties for road users who ignore level crossing signals. Tusk said, “We must start work immediately on tightening the regulations.”
Minister for Infrastructure Dariusz Klimczak confirmed preparations for “radical”
legislative amendments aimed at improving level crossing safety nationwide. These measures come as the government confronts ongoing risks highlighted by frequent accidents at unprotected crossings.
Nationwide Rail Delays Expected During Protest
The speed restriction to 20 km/h at every level crossing will likely cause delays across Polish rail services during the protest day. Leszek Miętek acknowledged potential for “significant” train delays but emphasized safety as the priority, saying, “We believe it is better to have delays for a day than for people to continue dying on the railways.”
Passengers and rail operators across Poland can anticipate slower train movements and timetable disruptions on September 11 as
drivers comply with the union’s nationwide go-slow action.
