Five Rules for Safe Bicycle Use

The Bicycle Safety Utilization Five Rules were updated on November 1, 2022.
Let's learn the correct rules and use bicycles safely.

• Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department Website (Five Rules for Safe Bicycle Use)(External Link)

1. Vehicles generally pass on the left side; sidewalks are an exception, prioritizing pedestrians.

According to the Road Traffic Act, bicycles are classified as light vehicles and must travel on the left side, just like automobiles.
Let's keep to the left edge of the left side of the road from the center.
Using the sidewalk is strictly an exception.
When using the sidewalk, proceed slowly near the roadway, and if it obstructs pedestrians, please walk while pushing your bicycle.
The sidewalk is prioritized for pedestrians.

2. At intersections, obey traffic signals and stop signs, and ensure safety.

When passing through the roadway, follow the traffic signals for vehicles, and when passing through the sidewalk, follow the pedestrian signals.
At locations with a stop sign, just like vehicles, be sure to stop and check for safety on both sides.

3 Turn on the lights at night

By turning on the lights, you can alert other vehicles and pedestrians to the presence of your bicycle.
For safety, please turn on the lights at night and equip your bicycle with reflectors.

4. Driving under the influence is prohibited

Just like with automobiles, you must not ride a bicycle under the influence of alcohol.
【Penalties】Imprisonment for up to 5 years or a fine of up to 1 million yen (in the case of riding while intoxicated)

5 Wear a helmet

About 60% of fatal accidents involving cyclists result in head injuries.
Additionally, if the chin strap is not fastened, the helmet can come off due to the impact of an accident, rendering it useless.
Always fasten the chin strap and wear the helmet correctly.
With the revision of the Road Traffic Act in 2023, all cyclists must make an effort to wear helmets.

Let's stop driving like this

Driving while holding an umbrella and using a mobile phone

Do not ride a bicycle in a way that obstructs your view, such as holding an umbrella, or in a manner that may cause you to lose stability.
Also, do not ride while talking on a mobile phone or sending messages.
【Penalties】Fine of up to 50000 yen

Related Links

• Cabinet Office Website (Regarding the Promotion of Safe Bicycle Use)(External Link)
• Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department Website (Bicycle Traffic Rules)(External Link)