Tokyo Police Getting Tough On Dangerous Biking
Police in Tokyo say they're cracking down on reckless cyclists amid an uptick in bike-related traffic violations.
Running a red light in the capital could soon land cyclists with a so-called "red ticket".
Other offenses include failing to stop at stop signs, riding on the wrong side of the road, or not slowing down on a sidewalk.
Bikers who receive enough "red tickets" or commit serious violations may face criminal punishment.
In April last year, a 78-year-old Tokyo man was killed after being struck by a delivery person riding a bike. The accident happened at a cross walk during a rainy night.
Investigators say the cyclist failed to put his lights on, and did not slow down at the pedestrian crossing.
Police say they're trying to prevent similar bicycle accidents in the future. The new ticket system could be in place by the end of the month.