Nearly 900 driving licenses have been suspended in Japan for drunk cyclists, following the introduction of stricter rules regarding penalties.

In the first nine months of the year, the Japanese police suspended the driving licenses of nearly 900 individuals who were caught riding bicycles under the influence of alcohol. Authorities believe that these cyclists pose a major risk to road safety, which is why they have imposed severe penalties. This increase in the number of suspended licenses coincides with the introduction of new rules in November last year, which provide harsher penalties for cyclists who consume alcohol, including up to three years in prison or fines of up to 500,000 yen (approximately 2,700 euros).

The blood alcohol limit for penalties has been lowered, and penalties can also be applied to those who provide alcohol to cyclists. Officials emphasize the importance of adhering to the rules to prevent accidents, considering that Japan reported over 72,000 bicycle accidents in 2023, accounting for more than 20% of total road accidents.