Stricter cycling rules are coming into effect in Japan

Traffic rules for bicycles have now been tightened in Japan as a revised road traffic law came into effect on Friday.

The police say they are educating people about the stricter regulations and will crack down on violators.

So-called ‘distracted cycling’ is now prohibited. Anyone who causes an accident or dangerous situation by using a mobile device while cycling faces a prison sentence of up to one year or a fine of up to 300,000 yen, or about $1,980.

Cyclists who talk to or look at mobile devices while on the road face a prison sentence of up to six months or a fine of up to 100,000 yen, or about $660. This also applies if the violation has not led to a dangerous situation.

Cycling under the influence of alcohol now risks heavier penalties. Previously, cyclists had not been penalized unless they were so seriously impaired that they were unlikely to be able to drive properly. Under the revised law, a penalty threshold of 0.15 milligrams of alcohol per liter of breath has been set. Violators face a prison sentence of up to three years or a fine of 500,000 yen, or about $3,300.

Vehicles with both bicycle pedals and motorcycle engines, or mopeds, are now classified as motorcycles, even if the rider uses them in pedal mode.

The KLPD says that more than 49,000 accidents resulting in injury or death involving bicycles have occurred this year through September. ‘Distracted cycling’ accounted for 126 of these.