According to the new rule, anyone caught handling a mobile phone or any other mobile device with a screen while driving a motor vehicle will have to immediately surrender their driving license for 15 days.
Smartphone use behind the wheel will come with stricter sanctions in Belgium from February 1, 2024. The new measure, aimed at increasing road safety, states that anyone caught using a mobile phone while driving will lose his or her driving license for fifteen days.
Until now, the sanction for such behavior was limited to an immediate collection of a fine of 174 euros. The new regulations show that the government is taking the problem of distracted driving seriously, given ongoing concerns about road safety. You are also breaking the law if you quickly glance at your mobile phone while waiting at a red light.
Despite the availability of hands-free options, many drivers continue to use their phones for navigation, sending messages or even filming while driving. This behavior is not only prohibited, but also poses significant risks to both the driver and other road users. Research shows that even a brief distraction, such as looking at a smartphone in the passenger seat, can significantly increase the risk of an accident.
In Belgium, using a mobile phone while driving is punishable, but there are regional differences in enforcement and the amount of fines. A recent development in this context is the decision of the Limburg public prosecutor's office. Anyone caught using a mobile phone while driving in Limburg not only risks a fine of 174 euros, but can also lose their driving license for fifteen days. This measure also applies in East Flanders and Halle-Vilvoorde. These regional differences are possible due to the autonomy of local public prosecutors in determining their enforcement policy.
The fines in Limburg start at 240 euros and can be imposed by the judge with or without delay. In addition, additional costs will be charged, such as a contribution to the Victims Fund and legal costs. This means that the total costs for the offender can be up to 540 euros, excluding the loss of the driver's license. The use of the mobile phone is only permitted provided that the device is in a suitable holder that is attached to the vehicle.
Only 37% of Flemish motorists estimate that there is a high chance that they will receive a fine if they violate these rules, according to the most recent behavioral survey of the VSV. However, from January to June last year, the police caught 36.703 drivers in Flanders for unauthorized mobile phone use while driving.
Many drivers use their handheld phone for navigation while driving. This behavior is not only prohibited, but also poses significant risks to both the driver and other road users.
These new regulations send a clear message to drivers: the risks of smartphone use behind the wheel are not taken lightly. With the increased penalties, the government hopes to increase awareness and discourage drivers from this dangerous practice. The impact of the new legislation is expected to be significant given the high number of drivers still reaching for their phones while driving.
The introduction of these measures comes at a time when road safety is receiving increasing attention worldwide. Studies show that distracted driving is one of the leading causes of traffic accidents. With the increase in smartphone use and the constant availability of digital communications, it has become a challenge to keep drivers focused on the road.
