🍽️ Can you eat or drink while driving in Belgium?
Many drivers wonder: is it allowed to eat a sandwich or drink coffee while driving in Belgium?
Unlike the use of a mobile phone behind the wheel, the answer is not simply yes or no. Here is what you need to know.
⚖️ The legal principle: remain in full control of your vehicle
Belgian traffic law does not specifically prohibit eating or drinking while driving.
However, a general rule applies:
Every driver must remain constantly able to drive and perform all necessary manoeuvres.
In practice:
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eating or drinking is not prohibited in itself;
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but it may become problematic if it reduces your attention or your control of the vehicle.
🚨 When can this become an issue?
Problems may arise if eating or drinking:
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requires you to drive with one hand;
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distracts your eyes from the road;
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involves handling packaging or a cup;
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results in irregular driving or delayed reactions;
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occurs in heavy traffic or at high speed.
Each situation is assessed case by case, depending on the actual impact on vehicle control.
📱 Comparison with mobile phone use
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Holding a phone while driving: ❌ explicitly prohibited
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Eating or drinking: ⚠️ allowed, provided full control is maintained
There is therefore no automatic ban on food or drinks.
✔️ Good practice for safe driving
Generally acceptable:
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taking a quick sip;
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eating a small, easy-to-handle snack;
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keeping your eyes on the road and both hands available.
To avoid:
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eating a full meal while driving;
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food requiring two hands or prolonged attention;
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opening packaging or complex handling;
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eating in difficult traffic conditions.
⚠️ In the event of an accident
If an accident occurs while you are eating or drinking, this behaviour may be considered a source of distraction and taken into account when assessing liability.
📝 Key takeaway
👉 Yes, eating or drinking while driving is allowed in Belgium.
👉 But only if it does not affect your attention or your control of the vehicle.
👉 When in doubt, the safest option is to take a short break.
Each situation always requires a concrete legal assessment.
Do you have a question or are you facing a traffic offence or dispute? Feel free to contact me for personalised advice and assistance in protecting your rights.
