No, riding unrestrained in a truck bed is illegal under Belgian traffic law, with exceptions only for agricultural or emergency vehicles under strict conditions. The Royal Decree of 1 December 1975 on road traffic explicitly prohibits transporting persons in open cargo areas unless seated in approved seats with safety restraints. Violations incur fines up to €1,600 and liability for damages under the 2023 Traffic Code amendments.
Key Regulations for Riding in the Back of a Truck in Belgium
- Seating Requirements: Only permitted if the vehicle is equipped with fixed, manufacturer-approved seats and safety belts meeting UNECE R16 standards (Art. 31.1 of the Traffic Code).
- Speed Limits: When transporting persons in truck beds, maximum speed is capped at 50 km/h on urban roads and 70 km/h on rural roads (Flemish Road Safety Decree, 2024).
- Local Enforcement: Municipal police and the Federale Politie conduct targeted checks near construction sites and festivals, with 2026 plans to expand AI-assisted license plate recognition for non-compliant vehicles.