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Cycling and Smartphones: Japan’s New Safety Law Introduces Stricter Penalties

Cycling and Smartphones: Japan’s New Safety Law Introduces Stricter Penalties

2024年12月18日 14:59
Japan's cycling scene has grown significantly in recent years, with more commuters opting for bikes to avoid the congestion of crowded public transport. But as the number of cyclists surged, so did the number of accidents. In response, Japan has revised its Road Traffic Act, enforcing stricter penalties to curb careless cycling and reduce traffic incidents.

While mobile phone use while cycling was previously regulated by local public safety commissions, with fines of up to ¥50,000, the rapid increase in cycling accidents—particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic—prompted lawmakers to take more decisive action. According to the National Police Agency (NPA), between 2013 and 2017, there were 295 serious accidents caused by cyclists using mobile phones. By the next five-year period, this number had spiked by over 50%, reaching 454 accidents, highlighting a troubling upward trend.

The rise in accidents coincides with the broader increase in cycling across Japan. Research by NHK World Japan found that bicycle-related accidents made up 18.2% of all traffic accidents in 2016, a figure that climbed to 22.8% by 2021. In 2022, cyclists were involved in 23.3% of all traffic accidents—the highest percentage on record since comparable data became available. Despite a decline in overall road accidents, the number of incidents involving cyclists reached 69,985 in 2022, up 291 from the previous year. This marks the second consecutive year of increases, underscoring the urgent need for reform.

TOUGHTER PENALTIES FOR "DISTRACTED CYCLING

In response to these alarming statistics, the updated laws significantly increase penalties for cyclists who use their mobile phones while riding.

Under the new rules:
  • Cyclists caught using their phones for calls, texts, or even glancing at the screen now face penalties of up to 6 months in jail or a fine of up to ¥100,000 and,
  • If the use of a mobile phone leads to an accident, the consequences are even more severe—up to 1 year in jail or a fine of up to ¥300,000.

NEW HELMET RULES FOR CYCLISTS

Alongside mobile phone related regulations, the revised law places a strong emphasis on helmet use to reduce the risk of head injuries. Although wearing a helmet is not yet mandatory for adults, cyclists are strongly encouraged to wear one for their own safety. Children under 13, on the other hand, are legally required to wear helmets, with parents held accountable for ensuring compliance.

The need for helmet use is evident in the recent tatistics. In 2022, more than 68,000 cyclists were killed or injured in accidents, with 88% of them not wearing helmets. Among the 339 fatalities accounted, 179 were the result of a fatal head injuries. The fatality rate for cyclists not wearing helmets was reported to be 2.6 times higher than for those who wore them.

While helmets are not yet legally required for adults, a new "doryoku-gimu" (duty of effort) clause encourages cyclists to adopt safer habits. This law, which took effect in April 2023, urges all cyclists to be responsible and wear helmets, even though there are no fines for non-compliance. Helmets are proven to significantly reduce the risk of severe injury or death, and the government hopes that this revised law will encourage cyclists to adopt safer practices. 

Despite this encouragement, helmet usage has remained low. A survey conducted by NHK World found that only 4% of cyclists actually wear helmets in Japan.  

However, failure to wear a helmet could affect liability in the event of an accident, as courts may consider it when determining fault and compensation.

STRENGTHENED PENALTIES FOR CYCLING UNDER THE INFLUENCE

The revised law also imposes stricter penalties for cycling under the influence of alcohol. 

Cyclists with a breath alcohol level exceeding 0.15 milligrams per liter can now face:
  • Up to 3 years in jail or a fine of up to ¥500,000.
For cyclists who are visibly impaired due to alcohol, the penalties are severe:
  • Up to 5 years in jail or a fine of up to ¥1 million.

HERE IS A SUMMARY OF THE REVISED PENALTIES:
- Mobile phone use while cycling                      => Up to 6 months in jail or ¥100,000 fine
- Mobile phone use causing an accident       => Up to 1 year in jail or ¥300,000 fine
- Cycling under the influence                              => Up to 3 years in jail or ¥500,000 fine
- Cycling while drunk (severe impairment) => Up to 5 years in jail or ¥1 million fine

ENFORCEMENT AND PUBLIC AWARENESS

These tougher laws are part of a broader initiative to reduce dangerous cycling behaviors. From January to June 2024, there were 18 serious or fatal accidents caused by distracted cycling—more than double the number during the same period in 2023. As a result, police have stepped up enforcement, conducting patrols and spot checks to catch offenders. Public awareness campaigns are also underway to educate cyclists about the updated laws and the importance of responsible cycling.

FINAL THOUGHTS: SAFETY FIRST

Cycling offers an efficient, eco-friendly, and enjoyable way to get around, but safety should always come first. If you need to use your phone for navigation, calls, or music, invest in a hands-free mount or stop in a safe location before using your device.

The roads are shared spaces, and each of us has a responsibility to prevent accidents—whether as cyclists, drivers, or pedestrians. Let’s all prioritize safety over convenience and keep our phones in our pockets while cycling (and driving). After all, your safety—and the safety of others—depends on it.

So, put on your helmet, keep your phone out of reach, and stay focused on the road ahead. Together, we can make cycling in Japan safer for everyone.

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