May Is Bicycle Month

● Bicycle Safe-Use Tokyo Campaign
The Bicycle Safe-Use Tokyo campaign will be conducted throughout the Tokyo metropolitan area from May 1 to 31. Be sure to follow all traffic rules, such as the five safe-use rules for bicycles noted below, and be considerate of others.

Inquiries: Traffic Safety Subsection, Civil Engineering Administration Section
(Tel: 03-5742-6615, Fax: 03-5742-6887)

● Five safe-use rules for bicycles
Bicycles are considered vehicles, and it is extremely dangerous to ride without knowing the relevant traffic rules. Please learn the traffic rules and ride your bicycle safely.

1. As a rule, ride on the street; traffic flows on the left side of the street
Riding on the sidewalk is an exception; always give pedestrians the right of way
As a rule, bicycles should be ridden on the street on roads with a sidewalk. When riding on the street, you must ride on the left side.
When riding on the sidewalk, it is wise to ride at a speed that allows you to stop right away if necessary, and you should ride on the side closer to the street. When necessary, you must make a complete stop and give priority to pedestrian traffic.

2. At intersections, obey all traffic signals and stop signs, and check for safety
At intersections with traffic lights, obey the signals; check for safety before moving forward.
If there is a stop sign, be sure to make a complete stop and check for safety before you proceed.

3. Use a headlight at night
At night, always use your bicycle light.

4. Riding under the influence of alcohol is prohibited
Riding under the influence of alcohol is prohibited for cyclists as well.

5. Wear a helmet
All cyclists should wear a helmet to reduce injuries in a cycling accident. Preschool and school children should wear helmets as well.

● Bicycle safe-riding instructors are raising awareness
Traffic accidents involving bicycles have been increasing year after year in Shinagawa City, and they now account for nearly half of all traffic accidents in the city. To prevent bicycle-related traffic accidents, we are assigning bicycle safe-riding instructors to instruct and conduct awareness activities.

● Don’t forget to complete bicycle registration procedures
Since bicycle registration to prevent theft is compulsory for those who own a bicycle, please complete the designated procedures at shops that display the “Bicycle Theft Prevention Registration Location” sign.

• For more information, please visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Bicycle Commerce Theft Prevention Cooperative website: http://bouhan-net.com/
Note: Website is in Japanese only.

Inquiries: Tokyo Metropolitan Bicycle Commerce Theft Prevention Cooperative
(Tel: 03-3251-5621)

● The streets are for everyone
Do not leave bicycles or motorcycles on the street; use the bicycle/motorcycle parking lots.

Inquiries: Bicycle Controls Subsection, Civil Engineering Administration Section
(Tel: 03-5742-6786, Fax: 03-5742-6887)