Driving and rest time regulations (rij- en rusttijd) are essential for safety and compliance. However, even experienced drivers and transport companies sometimes make mistakes that can lead to fines, accidents, or operational issues. Understanding these pitfalls is key to avoiding problems on the road.

 

1. Taking Breaks the Wrong Way

A very common mistake is splitting breaks incorrectly. After 4.5 hours of driving, a driver must take a 45-minute break. This break can be split into two parts, but the order matters:

❌ Wrong way: Take a 30-minute break first, then a 15-minute break later. ✅ Correct way: Take a 15-minute break first, then a 30-minute break later.

If the breaks are done incorrectly or not recorded properly in the tachograph, drivers can get fines.

Tip: Always follow the correct order and log your breaks carefully — it’s that simple.

 

2. Overlooking Weekly and Fortnightly Limits

Drivers sometimes focus only on daily hours and forget that weekly (56 hours) and two-week (90 hours) limits also apply. Exceeding these can result in hefty fines during inspections.

Tip: Transport managers should regularly review tachograph records and plan schedules that respect both daily and longer-term limits.

 

3. Mismanaging Reduced Rest Periods

Drivers may take shortened daily or weekly rest periods without planning proper compensation. Failure to compensate the missing hours within the required timeframe is a legal violation.

Tip: Always schedule compensatory rest periods in advance to stay compliant.

 

4. Incorrect Tachograph Use

Improper tachograph operation is a frequent cause of penalties. Mistakes include:

Forgetting to insert the driver card

Incorrectly switching between driving and other work codes

Not recording non-driving work accurately

Tip: Regular tachograph training for drivers prevents these errors.

 

5. Ignoring Exceptional Rules

Some drivers misunderstand exceptions for ferry crossings, international transport, or unusual schedules. Using these exceptions incorrectly can lead to fines or disputes with authorities.

Tip: Know the EU and Belgian rules for exceptions, and always document justification properly.

 

Conclusion

Even small mistakes in driving and rest time compliance can have serious consequences for both drivers and transport companies. By planning schedules carefully, taking breaks correctly, using tachographs properly, and understanding exceptions, Belgian truck drivers can stay safe, efficient, and fully compliant.