Traffic fines in Belgium often spark debate, but what happens when a perfectly law-abiding driver faces a wrongful ticket? Noem Evelyne Doom, a resident of Hulste near Harelbeke, had a spotless driving record for 28 years—until early 2024. On 2025-06-27 12:36:00, her story caught attention after she was fined for allegedly entering a one-way street in Kortrijk, something she insists she never did.
- Noem Evelyne Doom challenges wrongful traffic fine.
- Police recorded only license plate, no car details.
- Couple provides alibi but appeal rejected.
- Fine increased to 550 euros with threats.
- Police advise against false license plate complaint.
- Couple refuses payment, citing strong innocence claim.
Evelyne and her husband Nico were stunned when they received a €180 fine for a violation they claim never occurred. Despite their protests and evidence that she was home all afternoon, their appeals were rejected. Now, the fine has ballooned to €550 with threats of wage garnishment or asset seizure looming. How can the justice system allow such a situation to escalate without clearer proof?
This case raises important questions about the fairness of traffic enforcement and the challenges drivers face when contesting fines. What options do Belgian motorists have when wrongly accused? The following fast answer sheds light on this ongoing issue.
Why is it so difficult to overturn a traffic fine without concrete evidence? Evelyne’s case shows how:
- Police rely heavily on number plate identification, which can be prone to errors.
- Proving a negative—being somewhere else—is inherently challenging for drivers.
- Appeals may be dismissed despite reasonable doubt, increasing financial pressure.
- Legal advice and support remain crucial but are not always accessible.
As this story unfolds, Belgian authorities and motorists alike must consider how to improve dispute resolution and protect innocent drivers from undue penalties. Could reforms in evidence requirements and appeal procedures provide a fairer system? Until then, drivers should stay vigilant and document their cases thoroughly when contesting fines.
