Since there is no end to malicious traffic violations involving bicycles, the National Police Agency has decided to consider introducing a penalty system that controls cars and motorcycles with so-called "blue tickets". The aim is to lead to effective policing, and if introduced, it will be a major turning point in the way familiar means of transportation should be.
According to the National Police Agency, the number of traffic accidents nationwide is decreasing, but the proportion of accidents involving bicycles continues to increase, and the number of accidents involving bicycles and pedestrians is also increasing. In addition, more than 73% of the fatal or serious injury accidents involving bicycles nationwide last year were traffic violations on the part of bicycles.
While reducing violations that lead to accidents has become an issue, bicycle control is carried out by issuing traffic tickets, so-called "red tickets" that are subject to criminal penalties, but there are few cases where penalties are actually applied, and experts have pointed out that the pursuit of responsibility is insufficient.
In response to this situation, the National Police Agency decided to consider introducing a penalty system that enforces the use of so-called "blue tickets" for automobiles and motorcycles. With the aim of leading to effective enforcement, we will set up a study group composed of experts within the month to start concrete discussions on the content and age of violations to be cracked down. At the same time, the study group will discuss how to disseminate traffic rules for bicycles and the road environment in which bicycles can travel safely, and plan to compile recommendations by the end of this year.
Based on the contents of the proposal, the National Police Agency is preparing for a revision of the law at next year's ordinary session of the Diet, and if a penalty system is introduced, it will be a major turning point in the way we use familiar transportation.