TOKYO, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- About 13 percent of bicycle riders in Japan are now wearing helmets following a revised road traffic law that came into force in April, a recent survey has shown.
The reading marked a significant increase from the previous figure of 4 percent recorded in a survey conducted before the country's road traffic law was revised to mandate cyclists across all age groups in Japan to wear helmets in April.
A separate report released by the agency on Thursday showed that the October-December period, particularly from 2018 to 2022, recorded the highest number of cycling-related fatalities, totaling 575 individuals.
This phenomenon is attributed to several factors, including the early sunset times during these months, leading to reduced visibility during the twilight hours when many people are commuting or shopping, according to the report.
Police departments across the country are gearing up for an autumn national traffic safety campaign from Sept. 21 to 30, during which helmet usage and safe cycling practices will be further promoted. ■
