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Japan cracks down on drunk cycling with car licence suspensions
Japanese police have revoked the driving licences of close to 900 individuals caught cycling under the influence of alcohol, citing risks they could pose if operating motor vehicles, local media reported on Thursday.
Stricter penalties take effect
The surge in suspensions from January to September reflects newly enforced traffic laws that impose harsher consequences for intoxicated cyclists. Introduced in November 2024, the regulations allow for up to three years in prison or fines reaching 500,000 yen ($3,200) for violations.
Legal thresholds for punishment have also been lowered. Cyclists now face penalties if breath tests detect 0.15 milligrams of alcohol per litre or higher, a reduction from previous standards that required proof of impaired control.
Broader accountability under new rules
The updated legislation extends liability to individuals who provide alcohol to cyclists or lend bicycles to those suspected of riding while drunk. Authorities emphasize the potential for severe accidents resulting from impaired cycling.
"Drunk cycling can lead to serious accidents. We urge everyone to follow the rule: Don't drink and ride," a police spokesperson told Yomiuri Shimbun.
Rising enforcement amid growing bicycle use
Between November 2024 and June 2025, over 4,500 people were caught riding bicycles while intoxicated across Japan, according to police data cited by Mainichi Shimbun. The increase in enforcement coincides with a rise in bicycle popularity since the pandemic, which has also led to a spike in related accidents.
In 2023, Japan recorded more than 72,000 bicycle accidents, constituting over 20% of all traffic incidents nationwide, local media reported.
Cultural context and further regulations
Alcohol has long played a social role in Japan, often facilitating business discussions and easing tense conversations. However, authorities are tightening regulations to address safety concerns as cycling becomes more prevalent.
Additional rules set to take effect in April 2026 will penalize cyclists for minor infractions, including riding with an umbrella, using mobile phones, disregarding traffic signals, and cycling without lights at night.
