Brussels, August 10, 2024 — A tanker truck created a hazardous situation on the Brussels Ring Road on Saturday evening when it drove several hundred meters in reverse along an access road, narrowly avoiding collisions with several passenger vehicles.
The incident unfolded as the truck maneuvered backwards from the Woluwelaan exit towards Ghent, ultimately approaching the junction with the E19 motorway from Antwerp.
According to footage captured by bystanders, the tanker truck, which had been traveling southbound on the Ring Road, began its dangerous reverse journey near the point where the access road intersects with the E19.
The video shows several cars swerving to avoid the reversing truck, which used the breakdown lane for part of the backward maneuver.
The exact reason for this perilous decision remains unclear. Initial speculation suggests that the driver may have realized too late that they had taken a wrong turn, prompting the sudden and risky reversal.
Such a maneuver not only posed a significant risk to other road users but also created a potentially dangerous situation on a busy thoroughfare.
Local authorities have yet to receive an official report regarding the incident. The road police have indicated that they are currently investigating the event, but no details have been released about any potential consequences or charges.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with multiple drivers having to take evasive action to avoid collisions. “It was a frightening sight,” said one witness.
“The truck was moving backwards at quite a speed, and cars were scrambling to get out of its way. It’s amazing that no one was injured.”
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about road safety and the importance of proper navigation and awareness, especially on high-traffic roads like the Brussels Ring Road.
Road safety experts emphasize that such maneuvers are extremely dangerous and can lead to severe accidents if not addressed promptly.
In response to the incident, local traffic authorities have urged drivers to remain vigilant and adhere to road rules to prevent similar occurrences.
They have also called for the implementation of stricter regulations to address such dangerous behaviors.
As of now, there has been no official statement from the trucking company involved or the driver.
The investigation is expected to shed light on the circumstances that led to this dangerous maneuver and determine whether any legal actions will be taken.
For the time being, commuters are advised to remain cautious and report any similar incidents to the authorities to ensure road safety for all users.
