May is “Bicycle Safety Month,” and the Mie Prefectural Police Department is stepping up bicycle traffic regulation enforcement and spreading awareness of bicycle safety.

Five Basic Rules for Safe Biking

1. General road rules for bicycles is the same as those for motor vehicles. Sidewalks are an exception.
2. On roads, bicycles should be ridden on the left side of the road.
3. On sidewalks, pedestrians have right of way. Bicycles should be ridden slowly on the left side of the sidewalk.
4. Safety rules must be obeyed
   • Bicycling while intoxicated, more than one rider on a bicycle, and riding parallel are all forbidden by law.
   • Forward facing lights must be mounted on bicycles and used at night.
   • Cyclists must obey all traffic lights at intersections, all stop signs and check their surroundings for safety.
5. Children of age 12 or younger must wear helmets

Please observe these 5 rules while cycling and do your best to ride safely.

Last year, there were some changes made to traffic laws, specifically, those that concern the side of the sidewalk cyclists are allowed to use. Cyclists are now required to ride on the left side of sidewalks. Furthermore, please refrain from using a smartphone or other mobile device while cycling, as this is extremely dangerous. Bicycles, automobiles and motorcycles are all considered road vehicles.

For more information, please contact the Traffic Planning Division of the Mie Prefecture Police Department Headquarters at 059－222－0110.