EmotionsBelgium
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238. Emotions
Emotions can influence attention, judgement and driving behaviour. Anger, stress, fear, sadness or excitement may cause a driver to become distracted, impatient or more likely to take risks. Strong emotions can also affect concentration and reaction time. Drivers should recognise when their emotional state is interfering with safe driving and, if necessary, slow down, take a break or stop in a safe place until they feel able to continue calmly and attentively.
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Are there specific Belgian traffic rules about emotions while driving?
No. Belgian traffic rules do not create a separate offence specifically for being angry, stressed or upset while driving. However, every driver must be fit to drive, remain able to perform the required manoeuvres and keep control of the vehicle.
Can strong emotions make your driving unlawful in Belgium?
Potentially. If emotions lead to behaviour such as speeding, dangerous manoeuvres, failing to keep control or ignoring traffic rules, the driver can be responsible for those violations.
What should you do if anger or stress affects your driving in Belgium?
If you can no longer concentrate or control your driving safely, it is better to stop at a safe and permitted place and continue only when you are able to drive calmly and attentively.
Does Belgian law require drivers to remain in control of their vehicle?
Yes. Under the current Road Code, every driver must be in a condition to drive and constantly able to perform the necessary manoeuvres while maintaining control of the vehicle.
Can road rage lead to traffic offences in Belgium?
Yes. Road rage itself is not a separate general traffic rule, but actions resulting from it, such as dangerous driving, aggressive manoeuvres, speeding or threatening behaviour, can lead to offences under the applicable rules.

Traffic rules
Belgium