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Blood alcohol contentWallonia

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Wallonia

252. Blood alcohol content

Blood alcohol content (BAC), more precisely called blood alcohol concentration, indicates the amount of alcohol present in a person’s blood. It is commonly expressed as a percentage, grams per litre or parts per thousand (‰). Alcohol can impair judgement, reaction time, coordination and vision even before the legal BAC limit is reached. Legal limits vary between countries and may be lower for professional, novice or young drivers.

What is the legal blood alcohol limit for ordinary drivers in Belgium?

For most drivers, the legal threshold is 0.5‰ alcohol in the blood. A driver is punishable from this concentration, corresponding to 0.22 mg/l of alcohol in exhaled alveolar air.

What does 0.5‰ mean in Belgium?

A blood alcohol concentration of 0.5‰ means 0.5 grams of alcohol per litre of blood.

Is the Belgian BAC limit lower for young or inexperienced drivers?

No. The standard 0.5‰ BAC limit also applies to young and inexperienced drivers in Belgium.

Is the BAC limit lower for professional drivers in Belgium?

Yes. Applicable professional drivers are punishable from 0.2‰ alcohol in the blood, corresponding to 0.09 mg/l in exhaled alveolar air. The stricter limit also applies when driving certain heavy vehicle categories outside professional activities.

How is alcohol concentration measured during a Belgian roadside control?

Police normally use breath testing and breath analysis. A blood test can be used in circumstances provided by law, including certain cases where breath analysis cannot be performed or as a counter-analysis.

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

Yes. When a breath analysis measures at least 0.35 mg/l, the person must be informed of the right to request a blood test as a counter-analysis.

Does being below 0.5‰ mean you are safe to drive in Belgium?

No. Alcohol can affect driving before the legal limit is reached. The safest approach is not to drink alcohol when you plan to drive.

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