Riding under the influence is also now punishable with prison time.

Summary: Japan has introduced strict new penalties for cyclists using mobile phones or riding under the influence, aiming to curb rising bicycle accidents. Cyclists caught using phones now face up to six months in jail or a 100,000 yen fine ($655; £508), while riding drunk can lead to three years in prison or a 500,000 yen fine ($3,278; £2,541). These rules follow a rise in bicycle accidents, which now account for over 20% of Japan’s traffic incidents, as cycling grew during the pandemic. The measures build on recent laws requiring helmets and imposing fines for cycling violations.

  • atzanteolEnglish
    3·
    18 hours ago

    As for how likely it is that you actually get hit - do you think it’s easier to avoid a 2’ x 6’ object moving at 15 mph or a 8’ x 16’ object moving at 45 mph?

    The cars are where I expect them to be - and they are much more likely to slow if they see me on the crosswalk. Dude on a bike just swerves around me at speed.

    Cyclists like to think they’re still pedestrians when it suits their purpose.

    • sensiblepuffin@lemmy.worldEnglish
      1·
      18 hours ago

      shrug Where I live, cars feel (and know) that they’re invincible and likely to suffer no punishment if they kill someone.

      Drivers like to think that they can do no wrong all the time, not just when it suits their purpose.