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PotholeBelgium

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Traffic signs
Traffic rules
Belgium

75. Pothole

A pothole is a hole or depression in the road surface caused by wear, weather, water, repeated traffic loads or deterioration of the pavement. Potholes can vary greatly in size and depth and may develop gradually or become worse after freezing, heavy rain or repeated vehicle traffic.

Potholes can affect steering, braking and vehicle stability and may damage tyres, wheels or suspension components. Drivers and riders should observe the road ahead, adapt their speed and avoid sudden or dangerous manoeuvres when encountering damaged road surfaces.

Pothole
Car caught in a large pothole.
Wikimedia.org • State Farm • CC BY
What is a pothole?

A pothole is a local hole or depression in the road surface caused by deterioration or damage to the pavement.

What should you do when approaching a pothole in Belgium?

Adapt your speed and remain in control of the vehicle. Observe surrounding traffic carefully and avoid sudden braking or steering that could endanger other road users.

Must Belgian drivers adapt their speed to damaged road surfaces?

Yes. Belgian drivers must adapt their speed to circumstances including the condition of the road, visibility, traffic conditions and foreseeable obstacles.

Should you cross into another lane to avoid a pothole?

Only when this can be done safely and legally. Check surrounding traffic, mirrors and blind spots where necessary and do not force another road user to brake or change direction.

Should you suddenly brake for a pothole?

A sudden braking manoeuvre should be avoided unless required for safety. When the hazard can be seen in advance, reduce speed progressively before reaching it.

Are Belgian cyclists especially vulnerable to potholes?

Yes. Deep holes, broken pavement and sharp edges can affect bicycle steering and balance and can damage tyres or wheels.

Are potholes dangerous for motorcyclists?

Yes. A pothole can disturb the direction and stability of a motorcycle, particularly when encountered at speed or while the motorcycle is leaning.

Is there currently a specific Belgian pothole warning sign?

No. The current Belgian warning-sign system does not contain a sign whose specific legal meaning is simply 'pothole'. An appropriate road-surface or general-danger warning may be used depending on the situation.

Does the current Belgian A13 sign mean potholes?

Not specifically. Under the Road Code currently in force, A13 means a transverse depression or hump. It should therefore not be described simply as a universal pothole sign.

Can the Belgian A51 general-danger sign be used for an unusual road hazard?

Yes. A51 warns of a danger that is not represented by a specific warning symbol. A supplementary panel indicates the nature of the danger.

Will Belgium's A13 sign have a broader meaning from 2027?

Yes. From 1 June 2027, the new Code of the Public Road defines A13 as warning of an uneven road surface or a road surface in poor condition, which is broad enough to cover road deterioration such as potholes.

What should you do after hitting a serious pothole?

Check whether the vehicle still behaves normally and inspect the tyres and wheels when this can be done safely. If you suspect serious damage, stop at a safe location and arrange assistance rather than continuing with an unsafe vehicle.

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