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.
I’ve had my jaw fractured by a cyclist who knocked into me due to not paying attention. I now have an ugly scar because of it.
There’s all kinds of obstacles in cities. Including hundreds of thousands to millions of people. I can tell you from experience that a bike going into you at 30-40 km/h will hurt.
It’s not at all unreasonable to be against people pissing about on their phones while cycling.
The issue is compounded by cyclists who ride through pedestrian areas, cyclists who seem to think red lights don’t apply to them, and people getting electric bikes and whizzing around effortlessly at a high speed.
Wait… You’re telling me bicycles aren’t the answer?
Oh boy, the folks over at the fuckcars community are going to lose their shit!
Edit: obviously I misjudged how widespread and humorless the community of fuckcars is. 🤣
Bikes obviously have their place. For the time being, so do cars (although cities could certainly benefit from being less car-centric).
The operator of neither should be pissing about on their phones, both for their own safety and the safety of others.
You’ve waited years for this moment, haven’t you?
Longer than you could possibly imagine.