By Proposed Measures to Tackle Road Accidents: One-Year License Suspension for DUI Offenders
Justice Minister Wijedasa Rajapakshe is advocating for significant measures to address the rising concern of road accidents in Sri Lanka. One of the key proposals includes a one-year suspension of driving licenses for individuals found guilty of driving under the influence of liquor and causing accidents.
In a letter to Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena, Minister Rajapakshe highlighted the alarming impact of accidents on both lives and the economy. Last year alone witnessed over 2,200 accidents and 2,310 accident-related deaths, with a substantial number of serious and non-serious injuries. The minister emphasized that pedestrians and motorcycle riders were disproportionately affected.
Seeking the Speaker’s approval for a parliamentary select committee, the minister aims to identify the root causes of accidents and areas of law that require amendments. He stressed the urgency of enacting new traffic laws, proposing increased fines and the implementation of a merit system that could result in temporary or full license cancellations based on committed traffic offenses.
The proposed committee, consisting of 11 members, is expected to submit its report within four months, with a request for operational powers even during parliamentary prorogation. The minister’s initiative aims to address the broader societal and economic impact of road accidents in Sri Lanka.
