Japan to Introduce “Blue Ticket” Fines for Cyclists Wed.

Tokyo, March 31 (Jiji Press)–Japan will introduce the “blue ticket” system for cyclists on Wednesday, allowing riders who commit relatively minor traffic violations to avoid criminal punishment by paying fines. The system will cover violators aged 16 and over, imposing fines of between 3,000 yen and 12,000 yen for 113 types of traffic violations. The maximum fine of 12,000 yen will be imposed on riders who use smartphones while riding a bicycle. Those who look at the screen of a smartphone mounted on a bicycle with a holder can be given a blue ticket. In principle, police officers will first issue guidance or warnings, but highly dangerous violations, such as using a smartphone while riding on a bicycle, may result in the immediate issuance of a blue ticket. A fine of 5,000 yen will be imposed for riding on brakeless track bicycles, called “piste bikes,” or defective bicycles and 7,000 yen for entering a railway crossing with the barriers down. For other violations, riding on a bicycle while holding an umbrella will be subject to a fine of 5,000 yen, while a 3,000-yen fine will be slapped on those carrying a passenger on a bicycle. The National Police Agency calls on the public to check the detailed regulations and enforcement policies available on its website and other places. The agency aims to raise public awareness about the blue ticket system as part of efforts to prevent traffic accidents, planning to launch an intensive program during this year’s spring traffic safety campaign running from Monday to April 15. END [Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.]