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In autumn, the sun sets earlier each day and the risk of traffic accidents increases, especially at dusk.

In addition, with the arrival of the autumn travel and excursion season, there is growing concern about the rise in traffic accidents.

In this context, it is important for everyone to strengthen their traffic safety awareness, avoiding small oversights and distractions, and to drive calmly and with plenty of time, always prioritizing safety.

1. Period

From September 21 (Sunday) to September 30 (Tuesday), 2025 – a total of 10 days.
(September 30 (Tuesday) will be “Zero Traffic Fatalities Day.”)

2. Campaign Focus

(1) Safe crossing practices for pedestrians and encouragement to use reflective materials and brightly colored clothing

• When going out at dusk or at night, use reflective accessories, LEDs, and light, bright clothing (such as white or yellow) to protect your life.
• By the end of July this year, about 30% of fatal traffic accident victims were pedestrians, including cases where they themselves committed violations.
• For your own safety, always use crosswalks when available and follow traffic rules.
• Also, avoid “using your phone while walking”, as it reduces awareness of your surroundings and may lead to serious accidents.

(2) Elimination of cell phone use while driving, drunk driving, and encouragement of early headlight use and high beams at dusk

• Drunk driving is a crime and carries serious responsibilities.
• It is not only prohibited to drive under the influence of alcohol, but also to offer alcohol to someone who will drive, lend a vehicle to someone intoxicated, or accept a ride from an intoxicated driver – all of these acts are punishable.
• In addition to alcohol, using a cell phone while driving and practicing aggressive driving (“aori unten” – tailgating/hostile driving) are extremely dangerous behaviors that can cause serious accidents and must be avoided.
• Turn on your headlights earlier and use high beams whenever there are no vehicles ahead or approaching, helping to prevent accidents.

(3) Understanding and compliance with traffic rules by cyclists and light electric vehicle drivers, along with mandatory helmet use

• Bicycles are an accessible means of transportation for everyone, but they are considered “vehicles” and must properly follow traffic rules.
• Riding in pairs, side-by-side, holding an umbrella while cycling, or using a phone and earphones are all violations.
• Electric scooters that meet legal criteria are classified as light motorized vehicles and can be driven from age 16 without a driver’s license. However, they require a license plate, liability insurance, and compliance with other rules.
• On the other hand, electric scooters outside legal standards and electric bicycles with pedals that fall into higher categories are considered mopeds or automobiles and require a driver’s license.
• If you use electric scooters, always follow traffic rules and use them safely.
• For your protection, all users of bicycles and electric scooters must wear a helmet.

Awareness leaflet available here (in Japanese)

3. Contact (Japanese only)

Mieken KankyoSeikatsu-bu Kurashi Koutsu Anzen-ka Koutsu Anzen-han (三重県　環境生活部　くらし・交通安全課　交通安全班)

Phone: 059-224-2410