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Police checkpoints and fines for tourists driving Tuk Tuks near Arugam Bay

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Liam W.•12605 rep•2

We are driving our rental tuk-tuk from Ella down to Arugam Bay for the surf season. Are there heavy police checkpoints on the A4 highway, and what are the standard fines if they catch you speeding.

7
ellabeachessafetysurfing

6 Answers from travellers

✓Accepted Answer

Yes, the Lahugala stretch right before Arugam Bay has strict checkpoints, primarily to prevent wildlife accidents, as elephants cross the road. The national speed limit for a tuk-tuk is strictly 40 km/h. The police use radar guns hidden in the trees. If you exceed 40 km/h, the spot fine is usually 3,000 LKR. You must hand over your license, take the ticket to a local post office, pay the fine, and bring the receipt back to the police station to get your license back.

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Kamal W.•4110 rep•1

Make sure your surfboards strapped to the roof are not blocking the front indicator lights. I got pulled over in Monaragala for that exact reason.

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Sophie L.•10720 rep•2

If you are caught driving without the AAC local license endorsement at these checkpoints, you will be prohibited from driving the vehicle further, and you will have to pay a local to drive it the rest of the way to Arugam Bay.

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Mr. Perera.•7560 rep•1

They will also check if you are wearing shoes. It is actually a local traffic law that you must wear proper footwear while driving a vehicle; driving barefoot after surfing can sometimes result in a warning or a small fine.

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Jake T.•6290 rep•2

Do not try to argue or bribe the officers. Sri Lankan traffic police are very strict, especially with tourists. Just accept the fine, go to the post office, and pay it legally.

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Amali S.•12370 rep•1

Driving a tuk-tuk over 40 km/h is terrifying anyway. The steering gets incredibly wobbly. Just cruise at 35 km/h and enjoy the jungle scenery.

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Ben M.•12700 rep•1

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