A shocking incident involving a Belgian driver unfolded on the French A35 motorway, where an 86-year-old man drove 70 kilometres in the wrong direction. This alarming case of a wrong-way driver was reported by local police in Alsace during the early hours of 2025-06-16 19:37:00.
- 86-year-old Belgian drove 70 km wrong way
- Police stopped confused driver on A35 highway
- Driver missed exit, entered wrong direction
- Man ignored warnings, focused on trip
- Authorities arrested and hospitalized the driver
- Incident prevented major accidents by quick reactions
The elderly Belgian, apparently confused, missed his exit at the Blotzheim junction and inadvertently entered the motorway heading against traffic. Despite flashing lights and warnings from other drivers, he continued his dangerous journey until police intervened near the Fontaine toll booth.
What could cause such a lengthy and risky wrong-way drive? And how was a serious accident avoided? These questions highlight the importance of awareness and road safety, especially for older drivers. The following Fast Answer summarises the key points for Belgian readers.
This incident raises important questions about driver fitness and road safety measures. How can authorities better prevent such dangerous situations? Should there be more frequent health checks for elderly drivers? Key considerations include:
- The man appeared confused and unaware of the danger, suggesting possible health issues.
- Police managed to avoid a collision despite the driver’s lack of awareness.
- The vehicle was impounded, and the driver was hospitalised for evaluation.
- Such events underline the need for cross-border cooperation on road safety for Belgian drivers travelling abroad.
Looking ahead, Belgian authorities and drivers alike should prioritise regular health assessments and stay vigilant on international routes. Could enhanced driver support and education reduce these risks? It’s time to rethink how we safeguard our roads for all ages.