Level of understanding of road rules among road users in Sri Lanka.

Abstract

Although, numerous studies have been conducted in Sri Lanka related to traffic accidents, the level of understanding and awareness of road rules have not been investigated over decades. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to examine the awareness and level of understanding on road rules and penalties among road users in Sri Lanka. The data collection was done through online questionnaires and direct questionnaire surveys with a stratified sample of adequate magnitude, for analysis of the current impacts related to the safety and convenience of the public on road transportation. 359 participants’ survey data were used in the analysis. The study findings revealed that 67.6% of pedestrians and 75.44% of private vehicle users are aware of the relevant road rules, while only 9.86% of pedestrians and 21.05% of private vehicle users have knowledge of the related fines and law enforcement consequences for those rules’ violations. The results of this study have important implications for policy makers (Sri Lankan Government, Road Development Authority, Sri Lanka Police, National Transport Commission etc.), as well as for the general public including vehicle users and pedestrians.