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Anyone who is behind the wheel with their mobile phone or smartphone in their hands or on their lap risks a fine of 174 euros instead of 116 euros. The same goes for tablets, e-readers and the like. They should only be used if they are in a container.
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Kristof Simoens
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Every year in our country, at least 30 people are killed and 2,500 injured as a result of smartphone use behind the wheel. “Every road death is one too many”, says Mobility Minister Georges Gilkinet (Ecolo). “In several studies we find that more and more accidents happen because people are distracted by using their mobile phone while driving. This has to stop.”
The new law, published in the Official Gazette in recent days, expressly states: “Except when his vehicle is stationary or parked, the driver must not use, hold or manipulate a mobile electronic device with a screen unless it is in a holder intended for that purpose. attached to the vehicle.”
In concrete terms, as a driver, you are no longer allowed to call while your smartphone is loose on your lap, on the center console or on the passenger seat. “The use of your smartphone for navigation or as a music player is also prohibited, unless the device is clicked into a holder,” says Werner De Dobbeleer, spokesperson for the Flemish Traffic Science Foundation. “The same goes for other mobile devices with a screen, such as GPS devices or media players.”
In the Netherlands too
Connecting your smartphone via Bluetooth or, for example, a USB cable to the media system of the car is still allowed. “Because then the operation takes place via the screen of your car”, it sounds. “But even then we recommend that you know your destination or your playlist preferably set before you leave, so that you can keep your eyes on the road while driving.”
Anyone who does not comply with the new rule risks an immediate collection of 174 euros plus administration costs. In the event of a summons, the police judge can impose fines of EUR 240 to 4,000, and an expiry of the right to send is also an option. Belgium is not the only country to fight against smartphone use behind the wheel. In the Netherlands, the fines were also increased from 250 to 350 euros at the beginning of this month.
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