Cyclists using cellphones while riding in Japan could face up to six months in prison under strict new rules that came into force on Friday.

Those who violate the revised traffic laws can be punished with up to six months in prison or a fine of up to 100,000 yen ($660).

“Making a call with a smartphone in your hand while cycling, or while looking at the screen, is now prohibited and punishable,” indicates a leaflet from the National Police.

Some accidents caused by cyclists looking at screens have resulted in the deaths of pedestrians, according to the government.

Although the total number of road accidents is decreasing in Japan, the proportion involving bicycles is increasing.

Unlike many other countries, riding a bicycle on the sidewalk is permitted in generally law-abiding Japan and is a common sight.

Under the new rules, riding a bicycle while drunk can result in up to three years in prison or a fine of up to 500,000 yen.

Those who offer alcoholic beverages to cyclists face up to two years in prison or a fine of up to 300,000 yen.

Disclaimer: This story was published from a wire service feed with minimal edits to comply with WION’s style guide. The title may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION’s audience.