Riding under the influence
C.F. in Hiroshima wants to know about the revised law on riding bicycles that went into effect in June 2008. He has heard that police can arrest anyone if they have had a few drinks and are caught riding a bicycle home.
"Is there a specific law concerning this and, if so, how are the police enforcing it? My coworkers have suddenly become hyper-vigilant about this after work-related nomikai (drinking parties) of late, and I simply would like to know the facts, but can't find much about it online."
Naturally, driving a vehicle under the influence is a serious problem and should never be tolerated. But C.F. is wondering about the consequences of riding a bicycle after just a drink or two.