According to the relevant Gazette notification, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) W.P.J. Senadheera says certain passengers travelling on expressways are exempt from the mandatory seatbelt requirement.
The regulation does not apply to small children or passengers shorter than 4.5 feet. Passengers who have been medically advised not to wear seatbelts are also exempt.
The DIG said police officers will consider such special circumstances when enforcing the requirement.
However, he urged drivers to take appropriate measures to ensure the safety of children and passengers who are unable to wear seatbelts for medical reasons, particularly when travelling on expressways.
