Japan Suspends 900 Car Licenses as Strict Drunk Cycling Law Takes Hold

TOKYO: Japanese authorities are enforcing draconian new traffic laws against intoxicated cycling, resulting in the suspension of nearly 900 car driving licenses for cyclists caught riding under the influence of alcohol. Police deemed the offenders a “significant danger when driving a car,” signaling a serious shift in how bicycle offenses are treated.

The number of suspended licenses between January and September has risen sharply compared to the previous year, directly correlating with the implementation of stricter penalties introduced in November of last year.

The new rules significantly lowered the threshold for tipsy cyclists. Previously, penalties were largely only applied if the offender could not operate the bicycle properly. Now, a cyclist can be penalized if a breath alcohol test detects 0.15 milligrams per liter or higher.

The penalties themselves are severe:

Jail Time: Offenders face up to three years in jail.

Fines: A maximum fine of 500,000 yen ($3,200) can be imposed.

Furthermore, the law extends accountability to others, as penalties may also apply to individuals who provide alcohol to cyclists or offer a bicycle to someone who may ride it while drunk. The crackdown has already seen over 4,500 people nationwide caught riding a bicycle while tipsy between November 2024 and June this year, according to police figures.

Authorities are increasingly focused on regulating bicycles, a mode of transport that surged in popularity during the pandemic but also contributed to over 72,000 accidents in 2023—accounting for over 20% of all traffic accidents in the country.

A police official urged compliance with the new standard: “Drunk cycling can lead to serious accidents. I hope everyone will abide by the rule, ‘Don’t drink and ride.'”