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Street gutterWallonia

Learn traffic rules with clear explanations and visual examples in our illustrated book, designed to make studying simple and engaging.

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
Wallonia

82. Street gutter

A street gutter is a narrow channel along the edge of a road or street that collects and carries rainwater toward drains or other drainage systems. It is commonly located between the carriageway and the kerb and may be formed from concrete, paving stones or part of the road surface.

A street gutter is primarily a drainage feature rather than a traffic lane. Road users should take care near gutters because they may contain water, debris, drain openings or uneven surfaces.

Street gutter
Person pressure washes a storm drain during routine maintenance. (South Dakota, United States)
Wikimedia.org • Airman 1st Class Alystria Maurer • CC0
Is a street gutter a separate type of traffic lane in Belgium?

No. The current Belgian Road Code does not define a street gutter as a separate type of traffic lane. Its primary function is drainage along the edge of the road.

Must cyclists ride in the gutter in Belgium?

No. The requirement to ride as close as possible to the right-hand edge of the carriageway does not mean that cyclists must ride in the gutter.

Can cyclists move away from the gutter when it is unsafe in Belgium?

Yes. Cyclists may keep sufficient distance from the edge when necessary to avoid hazards such as drains, debris or an uneven road surface, while still following the applicable rules on road position.

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