Five rules for safe bicycle use

Five rules for safe bicycle use have been updated on November 1, 2022.
Know the correct rules and use your bicycle safely.

According to the Road Traffic Act, bicycles are considered light vehicles and must be driven on the left, just like cars.
Drive close to the left edge of the left side of the center of the road.
Walking on the sidewalk is an exception.
When walking on the sidewalk, drive slowly closer to the road, and if you are obstructing pedestrian traffic, please push the vehicle.
Pedestrians have priority on the sidewalk.

Follow the vehicle traffic lights when driving on the road, and the pedestrian traffic lights when walking on the sidewalk.
Just like when you drive a car, be sure to stop and check both sides for safety whenever there is a stop sign.

Turning on your lights will make your bicycle more visible to other vehicles and pedestrians.
For safety, turn on your lights and attach reflectors to your bike at night.

Just like driving a car, you should not drive a bicycle while under the influence of alcohol.
[Penalty] Imprisonment for up to 5 years or a fine of up to 1 million yen (for driving while intoxicated)

Approximately 60% of fatal bicycle accidents result in fatal head injuries.
Also, if you don't tighten the chinstrap, your helmet will come off due to the impact of an accident, so there's no point in wearing it.
Tighten the chinstrap of your helmet and wear it correctly.
Due to the revision of the Road Traffic Act in 2023, all bicycle users must try to wear a helmet.

Do not ride your bicycle in a manner that obstructs your field of vision or may cause you to lose stability, such as using an umbrella.
Also, do not drive while talking or texting on your cell phone.
[Penalty] Fine of up to 50,000 yen