However, the National Council for Road Safety has announced a three-month grace period for vehicles that were not originally manufactured with seat belts. During this period, owners of such vehicles will be given time to comply with the new safety requirement.
Sri Lanka's transport authorities had earlier stated that the seat belt law would be strictly enforced from June 20 as part of efforts to improve road safety and reduce fatalities and injuries resulting from traffic accidents.
Under the new regulations, drivers are required to wear seat belts at all times while operating a vehicle on expressways. In addition, all passengers travelling in vehicles equipped with seat belts must also fasten them throughout the journey.
Authorities have urged motorists and passengers to comply with the regulation, emphasizing that seat belts remain one of the most effective measures for preventing serious injuries during road accidents.
