Since July 1, drivers who use the highway’s middle lane for more than passing other vehicles will have to pay a fine in Belgium. (Courtesy photo)

New Belgian highway code enforces increased fines for traffic violations

CHIÈVRES, Belgium -- Pay attention if you drive on the highways in Belgium, because the police increased measures to monitor drivers for traffic violations.

In Belgium, the highway code added more infringements effective July 1. As a result, drivers can receive increased fines for violating driving rules.

People who drive on the emergency lanes for non-emergency purposes, for example, will now risk a fine of €174. That is €116 more than the previous fine.

Staying on the left and middle lanes will also cost more money. Drivers who do not move to the right lane after passing another vehicle will receive an immediate fine of €116. That is €58 more than the previous fine.

In Belgium, you should always drive on the right-most lane on the highway. The rule already existed, but it will be enforced in a more stringent manner for safety reasons. "Middle-lane hogging” can be very dangerous and cause accidents. It also contributes to less fluid traffic.

The list of offenses observed by automatic devices such as traffic cameras increased. It includes offenses such as driving in the wrong direction, the blocking of crossroads or intersections, non-compliance to following a traffic sign and more. Tickets and fines from automatic devices will be processed quicker than in the past.

If you have questions regarding the driving rules in Belgium, please contact the Driver’s Testing Station on SHAPE at DSN 314.366.6603 or +32(0)65.32.6603.

Story by Christophe Morel, USAG Benelux Public Affairs