Distracted driver accidents peaked in 2024.
In 2024, mobile phone usage while driving led to a record 136 fatal or serious car accidents in Japan, rising concerns.
Yo, listen up! In 2024, fatal car accidents in Japan linked to mobile phone use shot up by 14 to a whopping 136, the highest number since 2007. The National Police Agency reported that these accidents had actually dipped after stricter penalties were put in place, but then they started creeping back up in 2021. On the cycling front, bicycle accidents caused by phone-using cyclists also hit a record high of 28.
Last year, out of those 136 car accidents, 125 involved drivers glued to their screens, with 31 resulting in death. You’ve got to be kidding me! Most offenders are in their 20s and 30s, making up over half of these incidents. The NPA is stepping up to educate young folks about this danger. And don't forget about the drivers aged 75 and older — their accident rate is double that of younger drivers.
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