R.G.L. de Silva vs North Western Transport Board – CA 543/1998-2012

In the case between R.G.L. de Silva (Plaintiff) and North Western Transport Board, Kurunegala Peoplised Bus Service, and Sri Lanka Central Transport Board (Defendants), the court addressed issues of negligence and vicarious liability arising from a vehicular collision that injured the Plaintiff. It was held that insufficient evidence existed to prove negligence on the part of the bus driver, and that the doctrine of res ipsa loquitur was inapplicable due to its belated introduction at the appellate stage and lack of evidentiary support. The judgment reaffirmed the principle that pleading and substantiating negligence are essential for liability, and appellate courts will not disturb factual findings absent clear error. Reliance was placed on established authorities concerning the admission