Cyclists using a mobile phone while riding in Japan could face up to six months in jail under strict new rules that entered into force Friday.

Those who breach the revised road traffic law can be punished with a maximum of six months in prison or a fine of up to 100,000 yen ($660).

"Making a call with a smartphone in your hand while cycling, or watching the screen, is now banned and subject to punishment," a National Police Agency leaflet says.

Some accidents caused by cyclists watching screens have resulted in pedestrian deaths, according to the government.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/openai-takes-on-googles-search-engine-by-adding-new-search-function-to-chatgpt-772505">OpenAI takes on Google's search engine by adding new search function to ChatGPT</a>

Although the total number of traffic accidents is declining in Japan, the proportion that involve bicycles is on the rise.

Unlike many other countries, riding a bicycle on the pavement is allowed in usually law-abiding Japan and a common sight.

Under the new rules, cycling while drunk can land the rider with up to three years in prison or a fine of up to 500,000 yen.

Those who offer alcoholic drinks to cyclists face up to two years in prison or a fine of up to 300,000 yen.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Cyclists using a mobile phone while riding in Japan could face up to six months in jail under strict new rules that entered into force Friday. Those who breach the revised road traffic law can be punished with a maximum of six months in prison or a fine of up to 100,000 yen ($660).

Cyclists using a mobile phone while riding in Japan could face up to six months in jail under strict new rules that entered into force Friday. Those who breach the revised road traffic law can be punished with a maximum of six months in prison or a fine of up to 100,000 yen ($660). "Making a call with a smartphone in your hand while cycling, or watching the screen, is now banned and subject to punishment," a National Police Agency leaflet says. Some accidents caused by cyclists watching screens have resulted in pedestrian deaths, according to the government. Also read: OpenAI takes on Google's search engine by adding new search function to ChatGPT Although the total number of traffic accidents is declining in Japan, the proportion that involve bicycles is on the rise. Unlike many other countries, riding a bicycle on the pavement is allowed in usually law-abiding Japan and a common sight. Under the new rules, cycling while drunk can land the rider with up to three years in prison or a fine of up to 500,000 yen. Those who offer alcoholic drinks to cyclists face up to two years in prison or a fine of up to 300,000 yen. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Japan says ‘no biking and texting’: New law introduces jail time for cycling while using your phone

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Japan says ‘no biking and texting’: New law introduces jail time for cycling while using your phone