In Japan, new regulations introduced on Friday impose strict penalties on cyclists who use mobile phones while riding, reflecting growing concerns over road safety. Under the revised road traffic law, offenders can face a maximum prison sentence of six months or fines up to 100,000 yen (approximately $655 or £508).
This crackdown is part of broader efforts to enhance the safety of cyclists and pedestrians, especially as cycling has become increasingly popular during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a rise in cycling-related accidents.
The impetus for these stringent measures stems from a notable increase in cycling accidents since 2021. As public transport use declined due to health concerns, many individuals opted for cycling as an alternative mode of transportation.
This shift has raised alarms among authorities, prompting them to implement regulations that not only target mobile phone usage while cycling but also aim to deter cyclists from riding under the influence of alcohol. Offenders caught drinking and cycling can face even harsher penalties, with potential prison sentences of up to three years or fines reaching 500,000 yen ($3,278 or £2,541).
Japan Enacts Strict Penalties for Cyclists Using Mobile Phones Amid Rising Accident Concerns
Following the implementation of these laws, Osaka authorities reported five violations within hours, including cases of cyclists riding while intoxicated. In one incident, a cyclist collided with another, although fortunately, no injuries were reported. The new laws also stipulate that cyclists who cause accidents may face fines of up to 300,000 yen ($2,000 or £1,500) or imprisonment for up to a year, indicating a serious approach to improving cycling safety.
Despite an overall decline in traffic accidents across Japan, the rate of bicycle accidents has surged, with more than 72,000 incidents recorded in 2023 alone, constituting over 20% of all traffic accidents in the country.
Alarmingly, the first half of 2024 saw one fatality and 17 serious injuries linked to cyclists using mobile phones, marking the highest figures since such statistics began being recorded in 2007. Additionally, between 2018 and 2022, there was a 50% increase in accidents attributed to cyclists using their phones compared to the preceding five years.
These new regulations are part of a series of measures aimed at enhancing road safety for both cyclists and pedestrians. Previous initiatives included mandating helmet usage for cyclists and granting police the authority to issue fines for traffic violations. Notably, cycling on pavements is legal in Japan, making these safety measures particularly critical as they address the unique challenges posed by the country’s cycling culture.
