The Road Traffic Law has been amended, and the rules will change from November 1, 2024. Penalties for dangerous bicycle riding will be stricter.
- “Holding a smartphone” while rifding a bycycle.
Holding a smartphone or other device in your hand and talking or looking at the screen while riding a bicycle is prohibited and subject to penalties. (However, operating a smartphone while stationary on a bicycle is not subject to penalties.)
Violators are subject to imprisonment for up to six months or a fine of up to ¥100,000.
Violators are subject to imprisonment for up to one year or a fine of up to ¥300,000 if they cause a traffic hazard.
- Drunk driving and aiding and abetting
The following acts are subject to penalties.
- Riding a bicycle under the influence of alcohol.
- Offering alcoholic beverages to a cyclist.
- Offering or lending a bicycle to a person who is under the influence of alcohol.
- Riding a bicycle while driving under the influence of alcohol.
Violators are subject to imprisonment for up to three years or a fine of up to ¥500,000.
Violators who provided the bicycle are subject to imprisonment for up to three years or a fine of up to ¥500,000.
Violators and passengers who provide alcoholic beverages are subject to imprisonment for up to two years or a fine of up to ¥300,000.
- Cyclist training system
Anyone who rides a bicycle and repeatedly commits dangerous acts (such as disregarding traffic signals, failing to stop temporarily at a designated place, entering a blocked level crossing, violating safe driving obligations, violating passing zones, etc.) must take a bicycle riders’ course.
Failure to comply with the order to participate in the course is subject to a fine of up to 50,000 yen.
*People who “ride a bicycle while using a smartphone” or “ride under the influence of alcohol” must also take a bicycle operator’s course.
For more information, click here.
Inquiries (in Japanese only)
Mie-ken Kankyo Seikatsu-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)
Tel: 059-224-2410
