Cycling Under Scrutiny: Japan Enforces Strict Phone Regulations

Cyclists caught using mobile devices while riding can face severe penalties, including jail time, as authorities act to ensure safety on the roads.

Cyclists in Japan risk facing up to six months in jail under newly enforced laws targeting mobile phone use during riding, which took effect this past Friday. This drastic measure comes in response to a notable spike in cycling accidents since 2021, attributed to a pandemic-era shift in commuting patterns as individuals opted for bicycles over public transport.

Under the revised road traffic legislation, offenders can incur a maximum penalty of 100,000 yen (approximately $655) alongside the possibility of jail time. In addition to phone usage, the updated regulations also address the issue of cyclists riding under the influence of alcohol, imposing fines up to 500,000 yen ($3,278) and potentially three years of imprisonment for violations.

Shortly after the enactment of the law, local authorities in Osaka reported five initial violations, including incidents of drunken cycling. Thankfully, no injuries emerged from these early infractions. Data from local media indicates a severe concern for safety, highlighting over 72,000 bicycle-related accidents recorded across Japan in 2023, which accounted for more than 20% of the nation's total traffic incidents.

Particularly alarming statistics show that in the first half of 2024, one cyclist fatality and 17 serious injuries involving phone usage were reported—the highest incidence since such records began in 2007. Police disclosed that between 2018 and 2022, there were 454 accidents linked to cyclists using mobile devices, marking a staggering 50% rise compared to the preceding five-year timeframe.

These latest regulatory efforts fall in line with broader initiatives aimed at enhancing overall riding and pedestrian safety. In 2022, helmet-wearing for cyclists was made mandatory, and just this past May, legislation was passed empowering police to issue fines for a variety of cycling traffic infractions. The enforcement of these new laws reflects Japan's comprehensive approach to restoring order and safety to its roads amid evolving urban mobility trends.