Police have clarified that although wearing seat belts is mandatory for passengers of vehicles travelling on expressways, certain categories of passengers are exempt from the requirement under regulations introduced in June 2025.
Speaking on the Ada Derana Big Focus programme, Deputy Inspector General of Police W.P.J. Senadheera, who is in charge of the Traffic Control and Road Safety Division, said the exemptions were specified in a Gazette notification issued on June 25, 2025.
According to the DIG, children below the age of 12, individuals below 135 centimetres in height, and persons who have medical recommendations stating that wearing a seat belt is unsuitable for them are exempt from the requirement.
He, however, stressed that the exemptions should not be interpreted as a recommendation against using safety restraints.
“Those who are exempt can use a lap belt for their own safety,” he said, emphasizing that passengers should take responsibility for their own safety when travelling on expressways.
Explaining the exemption for young children and shorter passengers, DIG Senadheera said a conventional seat belt may pass across the neck rather than the torso of a person below the specified height. In the event of a serious collision, this could increase the risk of injury.
He also urged parents travelling with young children to take appropriate measures to ensure their safety, stressing that personal safety should not be left solely to law enforcement authorities.
Drivers Advised to Maintain Greater Distance in Rain
Meanwhile, DIG Senadheera advised motorists to maintain an adequate distance between vehicles, particularly during rainy weather.
He further advised motorists to generally remain in the left-hand lane and use the right-hand lane when overtaking another vehicle.
Police are also expected to examine vehicles travelling at unnecessarily low speeds on expressways. According to DIG Senadheera, discussions are underway regarding the possible introduction of a minimum speed limit for expressway traffic.
He also said motorists who observe dangerous or reckless driving can submit video footage to the Police via WhatsApp on 070 475 5600.
