Cyclists in Japan can now face up to six months in jail under stringent new regulations aimed at ensuring road safety, which went into effect on Friday. Offenders caught using a mobile phone while cycling may also incur a hefty fine of up to 100,000 yen ($655; £508). The move comes as local authorities attempt to manage the increased number of cyclists that surged during the COVID-19 pandemic, with many riders choosing to cycle instead of using public transport.
The recent legislative changes not only target phone users but also include stricter penalties for cyclists operating under the influence of alcohol, with potential sentences as severe as three years in prison or a fine of 500,000 yen ($3,278; £2,541). The urgency for these regulations is underscored by a notable spike in cycling-related accidents since 2021.
Shortly after the new laws were enacted, authorities in Osaka reported five violations, including two instances of drunk cycling, one of which involved a collision with another cyclist, thankfully without injuries. In total, Japan saw over 72,000 bicycle accidents in 2023, representing over 20% of all traffic incidents nationwide. Furthermore, the first half of 2024 recorded one fatality and 17 serious injuries related to cyclists engaging with their phones, marking the highest figures since detailed records began in 2007.
Between 2018 and 2022, incidents linked to mobile phone use while cycling escalated by 50%, with 454 reported accidents in that span. In addition to the stricter enforced mobile phone laws, authorities previously mandated helmet use for cyclists and passed a bill allowing police to fine traffic violators on bicycles. As Japan grapples with the challenges of a growing cycling population, these laws represent the latest efforts to enhance safety for both cyclists and pedestrians.
