Driving under the influence remains a pressing issue in Belgium, as recent incidents involving well-known VRT personalities highlight. On the night of Friday 13 to Saturday 14 December, during the Verkeersveilige Nacht in East Flanders, journalist Ruben Van Gucht tested positive for alcohol at a control point on the E17 near Nazareth. This case has drawn significant public attention.
- Ruben Van Gucht tested positive during alcohol control
- Van Gucht faces court for DUI October 9
- Zita Wauters received fine and driving ban
- Tom Waes crashed with high alcohol level
- Waes sentenced to driving ban and fine
- Multiple VRT personalities involved in DUI cases
Van Gucht’s driving licence was immediately revoked, and the matter will continue on 9 October 2025 before the police court in Ghent. He faces charges of driving under the influence, risking fines and a driving ban. The situation raises important questions about responsibility and public image in Belgium’s media landscape.
As of 2025-07-04 04:00:00, this case is part of a wider trend involving other VRT figures, including Zita Wauters and Tom Waes, who have also been caught driving intoxicated. What does this mean for road safety and public trust? The following summary offers a clear overview.
Why do these high-profile cases keep occurring despite strict laws? It’s a reminder that no one is exempt from road safety rules. This situation prompts reflection on public responsibility, especially for media figures. Key points include:
- Van Gucht recorded 0.50 mg/l alcohol, equivalent to 1.15 promille, leading to a 15-day licence suspension.
- Zita Wauters was fined and banned for 10 days after driving with 0.74 promille and an unroadworthy vehicle.
- Tom Waes faced a three-month ban, a hefty fine, and an alcohol interlock after a serious crash with 2.44 promille.
- These cases underscore the ongoing challenges of enforcing DUI laws in Belgium, even during safety campaigns like Verkeersveilige Nacht.
Looking ahead, will these legal actions encourage greater responsibility among public figures and the wider community? Belgian drivers must ask themselves: how seriously do we take road safety? It’s time for everyone to commit to sober and safe driving, ensuring fewer accidents and stronger public trust.
