🛑 Can You Contest an Automatic Speeding Ticket in Belgium? Your Rights and How to Proceed

Automatic speed cameras are increasingly common on Belgian roads, leading to a high number of traffic offence reports being sent to drivers by post. But what if you believe you were wrongly flashed or that the offence is unjustified? In Belgium, it is entirely possible to contest a fine—as long as you respect the deadlines and procedures stated in the official document you received.

This guide explains your rights, valid reasons for contesting, and how to take action.

📌 1. Can you contest an automatic radar fine?

Yes. In Belgium, any person who receives a traffic offence report (PV) has the right to contest it if they believe it is incorrect or unjustified. This right is regulated by criminal procedure and varies depending on the type of fine:

• A proposed transaction (typically for minor or moderate speeding violations),

• A summons to appear before the police court for more serious offences or repeat violations.

In both cases, you have the right to submit a defence. However, you must act quickly, as the deadlines are strict.

⏰ 2. Deadlines: Carefully read the document you received

⚠️ In Belgium, the time limit to contest depends on the type of letter you received. You must carefully read the correspondence from the FPS Justice or the police.

Make sure to strictly follow the deadline mentioned in the official notice or proposed fine. If you miss it, your objection may be declared inadmissible.

⚖️ 3. Valid grounds for contesting a fine in Belgium

Below are common reasons that authorities or courts may accept:

🚗 You were not the driver

Even if the fine was sent to the vehicle owner, you can explain that you were not the one driving and identify the actual driver (with their consent and full details).

🆔 Plate number error or identity theft

Cases of license plate cloning or administrative error are possible. You should file a police report and include the confirmation in your response.

📷 Unclear or unreliable radar evidence

If the photo is blurry, or the radar was poorly installed or maintained, this may be a valid argument—provided you have concrete proof (photos of the location, witness statements, etc.).

🚧 Poor or missing road signs

If a speed limit sign was missing or incorrectly placed, that can be a legitimate reason to challenge the fine.

📝 4. How to contest a fine in Belgium

General steps:

1. Carefully read the letter you received (immediate payment, proposed transaction, court summons, etc.).

2. Check the deadline for contesting, as clearly mentioned in the document.

3. Write a clear, respectful letter explaining your reasons for contesting the offence.

4. Attach any supporting documents (photos, police report, driver identification, etc.).

5. Send everything by registered post to the address listed in the document.

⚠️ 5. What happens if you do not respond?

• If you don’t act within the indicated deadline, the fine may be considered accepted.

• If you don’t pay or contest, you may face:

  • A higher fine,

  • A salary or bank account seizure,

  • A summons to the police court, with additional costs.

✅ 6. Practical tips

• Always keep copies of any documents you send.

• Send your contestation by registered mail, so you have proof of the date.

• If in doubt, consult a lawyer specialised in traffic law.

• If you receive a court summons, never ignore it—you have the right to defend yourself.

📣 Summary

🧭 I’m here to support you

I support you in understanding traffic law in Belgium. I help drivers assert their rights, prepare their defence, and I represent them before the police court when necessary.