Leuven taxi driver caught speeding in Grote Markt

In Leuven, a taxi driver was stopped by police for speeding in the pedestrian zone of Grote Markt. This area is designated for pedestrian safety, allowing vehicles only for passenger pick-up. The driver was not engaged in picking up passengers and was driving at an excessive speed, violating traffic regulations meant to ensure safety in such zones. The police emphasized that vehicles should move at a pace comparable to that of pedestrians. Upon stopping the taxi, authorities discovered that the driver had a special code, 01.06, on his license, indicating he was required to wear glasses or contact lenses while driving. This regulation is particularly crucial for professional drivers, who must adhere to stricter health standards, including regular medical check-ups to ensure compliance with vision requirements. Driving without the necessary corrective lenses is treated similarly to operating a vehicle without a valid license, which could lead to serious legal consequences. The police were prepared to inform the public prosecutor's office about the violations, which could have resulted in the taxi being temporarily taken out of service. Fortunately, the driver had his glasses in the vehicle, which prevented immediate action from being taken against him. However, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to traffic regulations, especially in pedestrian zones, to maintain safety for all road users.