Accident Compensation Estimator (Poland)

Pain and suffering compensation (zadoscuczynienie) is a one-off monetary payment awarded to a victim under art. 445 of the Polish Civil Code for non-material harm — physical pain and psychological suffering. Its amount depends on the severity and permanence of the injury, duration of treatment and prognosis.

Odszkodowanie (art. 444 KC) covers measurable financial losses: medical costs, rehabilitation, lost earnings and annuity. Zadoscuczynienie (art. 445 KC) compensates for non-material harm — pain and suffering. Both may be claimed simultaneously.

For minor injuries (bruises, short-term pain) Polish courts and insurers typically award between 5,000 and 30,000 PLN for pain and suffering. The exact amount depends on the extent of injuries, duration of treatment and impact on quality of life.

Lost earnings are calculated by multiplying the number of weeks of incapacity by the net monthly income divided by 4.33 (average weeks per month). The formula used is: weeks x monthly_net_income / 4.33.

Claims in tort become time-barred 3 years from the date the victim learned of the damage and the person liable, but no later than 10 years from the event. For personal injury, the limitation period is 20 years from the date of the wrongful act.

Yes — most proceedings start with a claim to the at-fault driver's liability insurer (OC policy). The insurer has 30 days to issue a decision. If the offer is too low, the victim may negotiate or file a lawsuit.

Key factors include: degree of permanent disability, type and duration of treatment, age of the victim, impact on professional life, cost of third-party care, travel costs for medical appointments, and any contributory negligence by the victim.

Yes — self-employed individuals, contractors and B2B workers can also claim lost earnings. Documentary evidence of pre-accident income is required: tax returns, invoices, bank statements.

Medical records and discharge summaries, proof of costs (receipts, invoices), a certificate of incapacity for work, and the police report from the accident scene. The insurer issues a decision which can be appealed or taken to court.

No — this calculator is for preliminary orientation only. Actual compensation is determined by courts or insurers based on detailed evidence and the specific circumstances of the case. Always consult a qualified lawyer before taking legal action.