Japan law to punish cyclists for phone use, riding drunk takes effect

A revised Japanese traffic law took effect Friday, introducing prison terms and fines for cyclists who use their mobile phone or ride while under the influence of alcohol.People caught using their phone -- for calls, texts or just looking at it -- face imprisonment of up to six months or a fine of up to 100,000 yen ($650). If they cause an accident, they face a prison term of up to one year or a fine of up to 300,000 yen.Previously, mobile phone use while cycling was punished according to rules set by local public safety commissions, with offenders facing a fine of up to 50,000 yen.The revi…READ FULL ARTICLE