Question from a reader:
I’m a high school student. While I was riding my bicycle, I was checking a lot of emails that had come in, and I almost collided with a car coming from the front. Fortunately, the collision was avoided thanks to the other driver honking their horn. What would happen in such a case? I will definitely make
sure to avoid using my phone while riding my bicycle from now on.

Bicycles and Mobile Phones: The Importance of Safe Riding and Legal Perspectives

Recently, my friend received a question from a high school student reader. While riding their bicycle, they were checking emails because many had come in. At that moment, a car was approaching from the front, and they were almost in a collision. Luckily, they avoided a serious incident thanks to the other driver honking their horn, but it’s chilling to think about what could have happened if the horn hadn’t sounded. In such situations, there are actually several legal perspectives and responsibilities involved. This time, I would like to delve into those points in detail.

Bicycles and Traffic Rules

First of all, bicycles are classified as “light vehicles” under the Road Traffic Act. This means that bicycles have the right to travel on the road, but cyclists must also fulfill their duties as drivers. Specifically, they are required to obey traffic signals, not ride on sidewalks, and ensure they do not obstruct the flow of traffic. Using a mobile phone while riding a bicycle is actually very dangerous and poses legal issues as well. Using a mobile phone while cycling distracts attention and makes it difficult to accurately assess the surrounding situation, increasing the risk of accidents. In Japan, there are clear regulations regarding mobile phone use while driving, but special caution is needed when it comes to bicycles.

Responsibility in Accidents

Now, if you unfortunately find yourself in an accident, what would happen regarding responsibility? Basically, the rider is responsible for their own actions. This means that if you were using your mobile phone while riding your bicycle, you could be judged to have been negligent. For example, if you were operating your mobile phone and failed to notice an oncoming car, resulting in a collision, even if the other driver had fulfilled their duty of care, you might still be found at fault. In this case, there could also be potential liability for damages. You might think, “But wasn’t the other driver speeding?” However, the law is very strict. Even if the other driver was speeding, if you were negligent in your attention, you could still be held responsible.

The Importance of Honking

In your case, the other driver honking their horn helped you avoid a collision. The role of that horn is actually very important. Honking serves as a means for drivers to alert other vehicles and pedestrians. If a cyclist is distracted by their mobile phone and unaware of their surroundings, being warned by a horn can be a lifesaver. Of course, don’t forget to express gratitude to the driver who honked. However, it’s crucial to take responsibility for your own actions rather than relying on others. When riding a bicycle, you should pay attention to your surroundings and absolutely avoid using your mobile phone.

Preventive Measures and Mindset

So, what should you keep in mind when riding a bicycle from now on? First and foremost, do not touch your mobile phone while riding. This is the most basic rule. Check emails and social media only when you are stopped at a signal or in a safe place. Next, always pay attention to your surroundings while cycling. Especially at intersections and in crowded areas, stay alert while riding. Accidents can happen in an instant of carelessness, so it’s important to maintain a sense of vigilance. Additionally, don’t forget to regularly inspect your bicycle to ensure it is in a safe condition for riding. The effectiveness of your brakes and the air pressure in your tires are crucial factors in preventing accidents.

Conclusion

Using a mobile phone while riding a bicycle is extremely dangerous. It is very important for young people like you, as you prepare to enter society, to think carefully about traffic safety. Being mindful of your own safety and considering the safety of other road users is the first step toward making the entire traffic society safer. Please continue to pay close attention while riding your bicycle and be aware of your surroundings. Take responsibility for your actions and maintain safe riding practices. May your future be safe and enjoyable!