97 infringements detected during joint road transport checks in Belgium

On 10 February, Belgian enforcement authorities carried out a joint inspection action targeting heavy goods vehicles and buses along the E40 motorway near Wetteren. A total of 168 vehicles were checked during the operation, which resulted in 97 detected infringements. 

The action took place in the framework of a coordinated European “Truck & Bus” control week and brought together national police, Customs and social inspection services. The European Labour Authority facilitated the involvement of inspectors from several EU Member States. 

Inspection teams carried out checks covering: 

• compliance with driving and rest time rules;
• correct use of tachographs, including smart tachographs;
• technical roadworthiness of vehicles;
• transport documentation and load securing;
• compliance with social and employment rules;
• outstanding road taxes and administrative fines. 

Digital tools and access to relevant databases supported on-the-spot verification of driver documentation and professional qualifications. 

Key figures 

• 168 vehicles inspected, 97 were found to be non-compliant.
• The majority of infringements concerned driving and rest times, tachograph use and technical deficiencies.
• Fines issued during the action amounted to approximately €98,000. Additional amounts in overdue road taxes were recovered, and several cases related to undeclared work, illegal work and posting were identified by social inspection services.
• Passenger vehicles were also checked, leading to further administrative penalties. 

Joint inspection actions contribute to the effective enforcement of EU transport and social legislation. By strengthening cross-border cooperation and information exchange, authorities aim to ensure fair competition in the transport sector, protect drivers’ working conditions and enhance road safety across the EU.