Belgian TV presenter Tom Waes was found to have a staggering blood alcohol level of 2.44 promille when he was involved in a serious car accident in Antwerp last November. This level is equivalent to approximately fourteen glasses of alcohol, significantly exceeding the legal limit of 0.5 promille in Belgium. Additionally, Waes was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash, which occurred near the Kennedytunnel on the Antwerp ring road.
The investigation into the accident has concluded, revealing that Waes, 56, had consumed alcohol at a restaurant and café before getting behind the wheel of his Porsche 911. Following the accident, which involved crashing into a crash absorber, Waes sustained severe injuries, including a head wound, broken ribs, and a broken hip. A road worker on site also suffered minor injuries.
Waes is scheduled to appear in court on May 5, 2025, where he will face multiple charges, including driving under the influence, driving without a seatbelt, and causing unintentional injury. Under Belgian law, a blood alcohol level above 0.5 promille is illegal, and penalties for exceeding this limit can be severe. For a blood alcohol level greater than 1.2 promille, the court can impose fines up to 16,000 euros and a driving ban of up to five years. If the level exceeds 1.8 promille, the court is mandated to impose an alcohol interlock device for at least one year.
Waes has publicly apologized for his actions, expressing remorse for his decision to drive after drinking. "It’s incomprehensible that I got into my car to get home. I should never have done that, and there’s no doubt about it," he stated in a heartfelt apology. His admission came shortly after the accident, where he acknowledged having consumed too much alcohol that evening.
The aftermath of the accident has been challenging for Waes, who is known for his work on the travel show Reizen Waes and the series Undercover, as well as hosting the history program Het verhaal van Vlaanderen. The Belgian public broadcaster VRT expressed regret over Waes’ decision to drive under the influence, emphasizing that public figures should set a positive example. A spokesperson stated, "This cannot happen. Our on-screen personalities have a responsibility to the public, and we expect Tom to take responsibility and show self-awareness regarding his actions."
Despite the controversy, Waes returned to work earlier this month, participating in the filming of the TV series Badgast, a co-production between KRO-NCRV and VRT set on the island of Terschelling. The Dutch broadcaster previously described Waes’ behavior as “very irresponsible and serious,” but deemed it premature to discuss the implications for his career.
The wreckage of Waes’ Porsche, a rare model, has since been auctioned off for 37,000 euros, with part of the proceeds being donated to charity. This incident has sparked discussions about the dangers of drunk driving and the legal repercussions that can follow such reckless behavior.
Experts have weighed in on the implications of Waes’ blood alcohol level, with toxicologist Christophe Stove from the University of Ghent stating, "This is very high; we can say that someone at this level is definitely drunk. The legal limit is 0.5 promille, making this approximately five times the allowed amount." He further explained that no driver with a blood alcohol level of 2.44 promille can accurately assess traffic conditions, emphasizing the severity of the situation.
As the court date approaches, the public will be watching closely to see how Waes’ case unfolds and what consequences he may face for his actions. The legal system will consider various factors, including the severity of the injuries caused, the high blood alcohol level, and the fact that Waes was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident.
In summary, Tom Waes’ car accident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of drunk driving. With the investigation concluded and court proceedings imminent, the focus now shifts to the potential repercussions for the TV presenter and the broader conversation about responsibility and safety on the roads.
