Belgium erects manslaughter on the road to offense

Main information – Belgium erects manslaughter road offense

• Belgium introduces manslaughter as a criminal investment.
• This change aims to raise awareness among offenders and support bereaved families.
• More severe sentences may apply in the event of aggravating circumstances.

The Minister of Justice, Annelies Verlinden belgium erects manslaughter road offense (CD&V), introduces manslaughter by vehicle as a criminal investigation. For example, She submitted a bill to the Council of Ministers to this purpose. Therefore, marking a change in terminology which could also lead to more severe sanctions in certain circumstances.

Currently. the penal code defines the fact of causing an accident of fatal traffic as a crime liable to a prison sentence of up to five years and a fine of 10,000 euros, whatever the cause. However, Verlinden wishes to replace this term with that of manslaughter, in accordance with the government’s coalition agreement.

Awareness and support bereaved families

The new amendment has two components. First of all, it aims to raise awareness among offenders. The Minister believes that the use of the word “accident” is not always the right representation of the situation. especially when it comes to reckless conduct. Verlinden thus wishes to send a clear belgium erects manslaughter road offense message to all road users.

In addition, Verlinden also talks about a message of support for bereaved families. According to her, it is essential to adapt legal language to better reflect reality in this context. The new terminology could also lead to more severe sanctions. In cases of manslaughter with aggravating circumstances. such as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, driving without valid driving license or crossing a red light, the maximum penalty will be increased to 10 years’ imprisonment and a fine of 16,000 euros.