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Driving in Belgium vs Oman: Key Safety Differences

When comparing the road regulations of Belgium and Oman, significant contrasts emerge that impact motorist safety. From lane markings to speed limits, Belgium favors a structured approach, while Oman implements stricter measures, particularly regarding alcohol consumption. Understanding these disparities is essential for ensuring a secure driving experience abroad.

Lanes

Markings: Solid Yellow Line
belgium:
Not commonly used; white lines are prevalent.
oman:
Marks the left edge on divided roads.
Markings: Dashed Yellow Line
belgium:
Not commonly used; white lines are prevalent.
oman:
Centerline on two-way roads; passing permitted when safe.
Overtaking: On Right
belgium:
Generally not allowed except in traffic queues or on multi-lane roads.
oman:
Allowed on multi-lane roads or when the vehicle ahead is turning left.
Bus Lanes: Presence
belgium:
Yes
oman:
No
Bus Lanes: Usage
belgium:
Reserved for buses and sometimes taxis; specific hours may apply.
oman:
N/A
Bus Lanes: Markings
belgium:
Labeled 'BUS' or 'BUS ONLY'; often with road signs.
oman:
N/A
Variable Speed Limits: Presence
belgium:
Yes
oman:
No
Variable Speed Limits: Indications
belgium:
Electronic signs display current limits.
oman:
N/A

Speeds Limits

Urban Areas: Standard
belgium:
30-50 km/h
oman:
40-60 km/h
Urban Areas: Residential Zones
belgium:
30 km/h
oman:
40 km/h
Rural Areas: Cars And Motorcycles
belgium:
70-90 km/h
oman:
80-100 km/h
Rural Areas: Buses And Vans
belgium:
70-90 km/h
oman:
80-100 km/h
Rural Areas: Trucks And Trailers
belgium:
60-90 km/h
oman:
80 km/h
Highways: Buses And Vans
belgium:
120 km/h
oman:
100 km/h
Highways: Trucks And Trailers
belgium:
90 km/h
oman:
100 km/h
Variable Speed Limits: Presence
belgium:
Yes
oman:
No
Variable Speed Limits: Indications
belgium:
Electronic signs display current limits
oman:
N/A
Enforcement: On-the- Spot Fines
belgium:
No; fines are mailed to the driver
oman:
Yes

Signals

Traffic Lights: Red And Amber Together
belgium:
Yes; indicates impending green light
oman:
Not used in Oman
Horn Usage: Prohibited Times
belgium:
Unnecessary use discouraged; local ordinances may apply
oman:
Unnecessary use discouraged
Traffic Signs: Language
belgium:
Dutch, French, German; symbols are standard
oman:
Arabic; symbols are standard
Traffic Signs: Warning
belgium:
Triangle-shaped with a red border and white or yellow background
oman:
Triangle-shaped with red border

Turns

Right Turn On Red
belgium:
Not allowed unless specific signage permits
oman:
Not typically allowed

Documentation

Driver's License: Foreign: E U/ E E A
belgium:
Accepted; national driving license sufficient
oman:
Accepted with International Driving Permit
Driver's License: Foreign: Non- E U
belgium:
International Driving Permit recommended
oman:
Accepted with International Driving Permit
Vehicle Inspection: Requirement
belgium:
Yes; proof must be shown during police checks
oman:
Regular inspection required
Vehicle Inspection: Sticker
belgium:
Displayed on license plate or windshield
oman:
Displayed on windshield
Emergency Equipment: Reflective Vest
belgium:
Mandatory
oman:
Recommended

Road Etiquette

Use Of Horn: Cultural Norm
belgium:
Less frequent use compared to some countries
oman:
Use more frequent compared to some countries

Alcohol

Limits: General Drivers
belgium:
0.05%
oman:
0.00%
Limits: Professional Drivers
belgium:
0.02%
oman:
0.00%
Limits: Underage Drivers
belgium:
0.00%; zero tolerance
oman:
0.00%
Enforcement: Random Checks
belgium:
Common; conducted by police
oman:
Common
Enforcement: Fines
belgium:
Varies by severity of offense
oman:
Substantial fines
Test Refusal
belgium:
Can result in license suspension
oman:
Can result in license suspension and heavy penalties

Emergency Services

Contact: General Emergency
belgium:
112
oman:
9999
Contact: Traffic Police
belgium:
101
oman:
9999
Contact: Roadside Assistance
belgium:
Check with your insurance provider or Europe Assistance
oman:
Check with your insurance provider
Emergency Equipment: Reflective Vest
belgium:
Mandatory
oman:
Recommended

Penalties And Fines

Common Fines: Speeding
belgium:
Varies; fines increase with speed, and can include license suspension
oman:
Varies; fines can be substantial
Common Fines: Alcohol
belgium:
Varies; substantial fines, possible jail time
oman:
Substantial fines, possible jail time
Common Fines: Seat Belts
belgium:
Fine of around 50 EUR
oman:
Fines may apply
Common Fines: Phone Use
belgium:
Fine of around 100 EUR, increased for repeat offenses
oman:
Fines may apply
Common Fines: Traffic Light Violation
belgium:
Fines; points on license possible
oman:
Fines can be substantial
Payment: On The Spot
belgium:
No; fines usually mailed to the driver
oman:
Common
Payment: Deadline
belgium:
Varies; typically 15 to 30 days to pay
oman:
Varies; ensure timely payment