Lawyer of 'coffins on wheels' sentenced by final verdict. Court reduced the sentence
A Polish lawyer was convicted of causing a fatal accident that killed two women and had his prison sentence reduced by the appellate court.
In September 2021, a tragic accident occurred on the road between Barczewo and Jeziorany, near Olsztyn, where a Mercedes driven by lawyer Paweł K. collided head-on with an Audi, resulting in the deaths of two women aged 53 and 67. The lawyer, who was sober at the time, sparked public outrage when he commented on the accident by criticizing the safety of the Audi, referring to it as a 'coffin on wheels.'
In April 2025, the Regional Court in Olsztyn found Paweł K. guilty of causing the fatal collision and sentenced him to two years in prison along with a five-year driving ban. This decision led to appeals being filed by both the defense and the prosecution. The case illustrated significant public concern regarding road safety and accountability, especially given the lawyer's insensitive remarks following the tragedy.
On Thursday, the Olsztyn District Court reviewed the case and reduced the prison sentence to one year and six months, while also imposing a four-year driving ban. This decision has reignited discussions about the judicial handling of road traffic offenses and the importance of ensuring justice for the victims of such incidents.