Belgium Theory C flashcards

32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

Built-up area lorry speed

In Belgium the general limit for lorries over 3.5 tonnes inside built-up areas is 50 km/h, unless a lower sign applies.

Priority to the right

At an intersection with no signs or markings, drivers must yield to vehicles approaching from their right; this default rule does not apply where signs or lights regulate priority.

Flashing amber light

A flashing amber traffic light means proceed with caution and apply normal priority rules; it does not grant right of way over other traffic.

Blue lorry sign

A blue circular sign with a lorry symbol imposes a mandatory route for goods vehicles; a red-bordered circle with the same symbol prohibits them.

Annual technical inspection

Lorries over 3.5 tonnes in Belgium must pass technical inspection every year; the valid certificate is kept in the vehicle and the sticker is displayed.

Air brake pressure check

Before departure, reservoir pressure must be within the manufacturer's range; low pressure prevents release of spring brakes and triggers a warning buzzer or light.

Tyre tread minimum lorry

The legal minimum tread depth for lorry tyres is 1 mm across the central three-quarters of the tread; cords, bulges, or sidewall damage require immediate replacement.

Endurance brake function

An engine brake or retarder slows the vehicle on long descents without using the service brakes, preventing brake fade; it never replaces the service braking system.

AdBlue purpose

AdBlue is a urea solution injected into the exhaust to reduce nitrogen oxides in selective catalytic reduction systems; running out usually derates engine power.

Daily driving limit

The standard daily driving limit is 9 hours, extendable to 10 hours at most twice per week; the weekly limit is 56 hours.

Break after 4.5 hours

After 4.5 hours of driving, a break of at least 45 minutes is required; it may be split into 15 minutes followed by 30 minutes.

Reduced daily rest

Daily rest of 11 hours may be reduced to 9 hours at most three times between weekly rest periods; the reduction is not compensated.

Weekly rest rule

Weekly rest is 45 hours, reducible to 24 hours; the reduction must be compensated en bloc before the end of the third following week.

Tachograph record retention

Drivers must be able to produce tachograph records for the current day and the previous 28 days when requested by enforcement officers.

Code 95 card

The driver qualification card, marked code 95, is required for professional lorry drivers in Belgium and is renewed every five years after 35 hours of training.

Two-week driving limit

Driving time in any two consecutive weeks may not exceed 90 hours, regardless of how the daily and weekly limits are distributed.

Maximum combination mass

For international transport, the maximum authorised mass of a lorry combination is generally 44 tonnes; national limits can differ and must be checked.

Maximum vehicle dimensions

Standard maximum width is 2.55 m, height 4.0 m, and articulated combination length 16.5 m, subject to national rules and permits.

Lashing force requirement

Load securing must withstand at least the weight of the cargo in the forward direction; top-over lashings depend on friction between load and bed.

Axle load distribution

Loads must be distributed so no axle exceeds its permitted load; the centre of gravity should be low and near the drive axle for stability.

Projecting load marking

Loads projecting beyond the rear of the vehicle must be marked with a warning panel so following traffic can judge the overhang.

ADR orange plates

Vehicles carrying dangerous goods display orange plates at front and rear; the transport document and driver training certificate must also be on board.

Emergency call number Belgium

The European emergency number 112 reaches police, fire, and ambulance services in Belgium; it should be called after securing the scene.

Recovery position use

An unconscious casualty who is breathing is placed in the recovery position to keep the airway open and prevent choking while awaiting help.

Severe bleeding control

Life-threatening bleeding is controlled by firm direct pressure on the wound; a tourniquet is used only as a last resort for limb bleeding.

Lorry blind spots

Lorries have large blind areas at the front, both sides, and rear; mirrors and cameras must be adjusted before departure, especially for right turns near cyclists.

Fatigue warning signs

Yawning, lane drift, and heavy eyelids indicate fatigue; the only effective remedy is stopping to rest, not fresh air or coffee.

Aerodynamic drag and speed

Aerodynamic drag increases with the square of speed, so lowering motorway speed from 90 to 80 km/h measurably reduces fuel consumption.

Anticipatory driving benefit

Reading traffic ahead and releasing the accelerator early avoids unnecessary acceleration and braking, lowering fuel use and brake wear.

Tyre pressure and fuel

Under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance and fuel consumption and can overheat; correct pressure reduces both fuel use and tyre wear.

Idling fuel waste

Idling burns fuel without moving the vehicle; switching off during longer stops saves fuel and reduces emissions where the vehicle permits.

Low-emission zone access

Belgian cities may restrict lorry access based on Euro emission class; the class is shown on the registration certificate and must be checked before entering.