Japan has introduced strict penalties for cyclists using mobile phones, with violators facing up to six months in prison or a fine of 100,000 yen ($655).
The crackdown follows a rise in cycling accidents since 2021, as more people turned to bikes during the pandemic.
Authorities aim to curb risky behaviors by cyclists and enhance road safety with these measures, which also impose penalties for cycling under the influence.
Drunk cyclists now face harsher consequences, including up to three years in jail or fines of up to 500,000 yen ($3,278), in efforts to reduce the high number of traffic incidents involving bicycles.
The impact of the law was immediate, with Osaka officials reporting five violations on the law’s first day, including two drunk cyclists—one involved in a collision, though no injuries occurred.
Statistics underscore the need for reform: in 2023 alone, over 72,000 cycling accidents made up more than 20% of Japan’s traffic incidents, and there has been a significant rise in phone-related cycling accidents, with one death and 17 serious injuries in the first half of 2024.
The new rules build on Japan’s ongoing road safety measures, such as mandatory helmet laws and recent legislation allowing fines for cycling traffic offenses, in an effort to safeguard both cyclists and pedestrians.
Image credit: Chepe Nicoli
