Police in Tokyo handed out fliers to cyclists on Thursday to raise awareness about the nationwide introduction next April of fines for relatively minor traffic violations.
Under the system, using a smartphone while cycling will result in a fine of 12,000 yen, or about 81 dollars. Ignoring a red light will carry a fine of 6,000 yen, or about 40 dollars. Offenders who pay the fines will not face criminal prosecution.
Twenty police officers took part in the effort at a busy intersection in Tokyo’s Shinjuku Ward.
The officers also reminded cyclists that while they are in principle required to use the road, people in their 70s or older, as well as those younger than 13, are allowed to ride on the sidewalk to reduce the risk of traffic accidents.
According to the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department, 25 cyclists died in traffic accidents in Tokyo in 2024. It says 80 percent, or 20 of them, had ignored red lights or committed other violations.
Kudo Tadao, an officer with the department’s traffic safety section, expressed hope that the introduction of fines will encourage cyclists to follow basic traffic rules, such as stopping at traffic lights, for their own safety.
AloJapan.com