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Blood testBelgium

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Traffic signs
Traffic rules
Belgium

253. Blood test

A blood test can be used to measure the concentration of alcohol in a person’s blood. A healthcare professional takes a blood sample, which is then analysed in a laboratory to determine the blood alcohol concentration (BAC). In traffic enforcement, blood testing may be used when breath testing is impossible or unsuitable, after an accident or as a counter-analysis to a breath result. The circumstances in which a blood test can be required and the legal alcohol limits vary between countries.

When can the police require a blood test for alcohol in Belgium?

A blood test can be ordered when a breath test reaches the applicable alcohol threshold but a breath analysis cannot be performed, or when neither a breath test nor breath analysis can be carried out and there are clear signs of alcohol consumption or intoxication.

Who takes the blood sample in Belgium?

The blood sample is taken by a doctor requested for that purpose and is then analysed to determine the alcohol concentration in the blood.

Can a blood test be required after a traffic accident in Belgium?

Yes. If neither a breath test nor a breath analysis can be performed on a person who may have caused or contributed to an accident, a blood sample can be required, including when it is impossible to determine whether signs of alcohol consumption are present.

Can you request a blood test after a breath analysis in Belgium?

Yes. If the valid breath-analysis result is at least 0.35 mg/l of alcohol in exhaled breath, the person can request a blood test as a counter-analysis.

What blood alcohol levels are punishable in Belgium?

For most drivers, an alcohol concentration of at least 0.5 g/l of blood (0.5‰) is punishable. Applicable professional drivers are subject to the lower threshold of 0.2 g/l (0.2‰).

Can you refuse a required alcohol blood test in Belgium?

Refusing a legally required blood test without a valid reason can itself be punishable in the circumstances specified by Belgian traffic law.

Who pays for a Belgian alcohol blood test?

The costs of taking and analysing the blood sample can be charged to the person tested when the relevant alcohol offence is established under the conditions provided by law.

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