Watch out on a street!

Please watch out on the street. Unfortunately the numbers of the following crime and accident are increasing in Japan, especially in Osaka.


Bag Snatching

On August 27th, Osaka Prefectural Police are distributing "Jitensha Maekago Covers", which cover the front basket of bicycles, on the street to raise awareness of snatchers. It is embarrassing but the crime rate of snatchers is highest in Osaka so when you ride a bicycle I recommend using the basket cover to prevent theft. You can purchase the covers and there are many type available in the shops.

Collisions

When you walk in Japan you'll notice that pedestrians and bicycle riders are using the same paths. Because of that, the number of accidents involving a collision between cyclists and pedestrians are increasing. In the worst case, the victim of a collision could hit their head and become unconscious. I'm sure you don't want to be in this situation so when you are on the street please pay some attention to everyone around you.
 
For cyclists:

• Do not ride a bicycle with 2 people.
• Lite the front light at night.
• Do not ride a bicycle when you drunk.
• Do not use a mobile phone while you are operating your bicycle.
• Do not use an umbrella when you are riding a bicycle.

For pedestrians:

• Don't use a mobile phone while walking
• Listen for bicycle bells
• Look around before quickly changing directions
• In areas that have them, walk on the pedestrian side of the path

Learn about the penalties of riding bicycles dangerously here:
http://www.pref.kyoto.jp/fukei/foreign/koki_k_t/jitensha/

More information:
http://www.tokyobybike.com/2009/02/of-bicycle-laws-in-japan-and-other.html
http://kanko.city.kyoto.lg.jp/bicycle/en/rule/
http://www.tofugu.com/2012/12/11/how-to-ride-a-bicycle-in-japan/