In brief
Japan has enacted strict laws aimed at regulating cyclist behavior in response to a significant increase in accidents linked to mobile phone use during the pandemic. Under the new traffic regulations, cyclists caught using their phones while riding may face up to six months in prison or a fine of 100,000 yen (approximately $655 or £508).
The rise in bike usage during the pandemic has corresponded with a troubling increase in accidents, prompting authorities to take action. Additionally, the laws also impose severe penalties for cyclists under the influence of alcohol, with possible prison terms of up to three years or fines reaching 500,000 yen ($3,278; £2,541). Just hours after the regulations took effect, authorities in Osaka reported five violations, including two incidents involving drunken cyclists, one of whom collided with another rider, fortunately without fatalities. As of 2023, Japan recorded over 72,000 bicycle accidents, accounting for over 20% of all traffic accidents. Notably, statistics from the first half of 2024 indicate one death and 17 serious injuries due to cyclists using phones, marking the highest figures since monitoring began in 2007. Between 2018 and 2022, incidents related to phone use among cyclists surged by 50%, leading to the implementation of various safety measures, such as mandatory helmet use and fines for traffic violations introduced by the parliament last year.
