Japanese police have suspended the car driving licences of close to 900 people after they were found cycling while intoxicated, according to the Mainichi newspaper.

Authorities said the individuals were punished because they were “likely to pose a significant danger when driving a car.”

The sharp rise in suspensions is linked to tougher traffic laws introduced late last year, which expanded the consequences for riding a bicycle under the influence.

Officials say, “the number of licence suspensions between January and September increased significantly compared to similar periods in past years.”

Under the revised regulations, enacted in November 2024, cyclists caught drunk can face up to three years in jail or a fine reaching 500,000 yen (Ksh. 415,000).

The updated law also lowered the bar for enforcement, allowing penalties if a breathalyser reading detects 0.15 milligrams of alcohol per litre or more.

Tougher Alcohol Rules for Cyclists

Previously, penalties were reserved for cyclists who clearly struggled to control their bicycles.

Now, responsibility stretches beyond the rider.

People who provide alcohol to cyclists, or those who hand over bicycles to someone likely to ride drunk, may also face punishment.

Police have defended the crackdown as necessary to reduce serious injuries.

“Drunk cycling can lead to serious accidents,” a police official told the Yomiuri Shimbun.

“I hope everyone will abide by the rule, don’t drink and ride,” he added.

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Popularity of Bicycles Linked to Rising Accidents

Japan’s police underscore the scale of the problem.

More than 4,500 people nationwide were found cycling while intoxicated between November 2024 and June this year, the Mainichi newspaper reported.

The surge comes as bicycle use grew notably during the COVID-19 pandemic, a trend that authorities say also contributed to more collisions.

In 2023, Japan recorded over 72,000 bicycle-related accidents, accounting for more than a fifth of all traffic incidents across the country, according to the Mainichi newspaper.

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Drinking Linked to Culture

Cultural habits also play a role.

Drinking has deep roots in Japanese social and business culture, where alcohol is often associated with easing formal discussions and negotiations.

For many, evenings of beer or sake remain a central part of workplace interactions.

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A Japanese Cyclists in one of Japan’s Squares. PHOTO/ BBC