Ghent (Brussels Morning Newspaper): On February 25, 2024, in Ghent, a driver with an alcohol level of 2,644 ng /ml hit three cyclists while speeding at 118 km/h. The driver, with seven prior convictions, showed no remorse and was sentenced to four years in prison, with part suspended and fines totaling €24,000.

On Sunday, February 25, 2024, around 10:45 a.m., a group of cyclists was riding on Pantserschipstraat in Ghent when a car suddenly turned into their lane. The driver lost control, hit a bus stop curb, and sped across the road. Three cyclists were hit, while two others managed to avoid the car. The Public Prosecution Service said the driver had a very high alcohol level of 2,644 nanograms per milliliter, the highest ever recorded in East Flanders.

How can drivers with 2,600 ng/ml BAC and past convictions endanger road safety?

A man was caught driving with a very high alcohol level of 2,600 nanograms in Genk, which is much more than the limit. He was speeding at 118 km/h in a residential area. This man had been in trouble for similar reasons, with seven past convictions, including hit-and-run accidents. He claimed he was just an “occasional drinker” and refused to get help for his drinking problem. The Public Prosecution Service said he showed no understanding of his actions and even claimed about his drinking in messages on his phone. This case raises serious concerns about safety on the roads.

 The man was found guilty of causing an accident that led to death. The prosecutor said he didn’t care about the victims and kept talking on his phone after the crash. He got a 4-year sentence, but 1.5 years of it is on hold. He also has to pay a fine of 16,000 euros and can never drive again. He must get help for his alcohol problem. He received a 1-year prison sentence and an 8,000 euro fine for driving without a license.