World News for Students of English

06-04-2026 15:00

Japanese police are starting to punish people who ride bicycles recklessly, following a record number of accidents that involved pedestrians.

The new law went into effect last Wednesday across Japan. It allows officers to issue tickets and fines for breaking rules. These rules include small things, like holding an umbrella while riding, wearing earbuds, or not stopping at red lights. The highest fine, about 75 dollars, is for using a phone while cycling. Last year, there were more than 67,000 bicycle accidents. In many cases, the rider didn’t follow the rules. One victim was hit by a student on a bike, and her shoulder still hurts today.

Some riders say the new rules about where to ride are confusing. However, the police hope these fines will make people more careful. These rules are for everyone who is 16 years old or older. If the mistake is very small, the police might only give a warning the first time.

Difficult words: recklessly (in a dangerous way without thinking about the safety of other people), pedestrian (a person who is walking in the street), confusing (difficult to understand because it is not clear).

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