I just recently passed my driving test in Japan. I am considering buying a car, but have been hesitant due to the problem of people riding their bicycles on the wrong side of the road, day or night, with or without lights. This problem spans all age groups in Japan.
Riding bicycles on the wrong side of the road is not only blatantly wrong; it is also inherently stupid and dangerous to other road users. It is my understanding that, in Japan, if a motorist hits a bicyclist riding on the wrong side of the road, it's the motorist who's at fault. I come from the United Kingdom where motorists will in no uncertain terms let you know that you are breaking the law if you ride your bicycle on the wrong side of the road.
Here in Japan, motorists are as meek as newborn lambs. I see very little emotion from Japanese motorists in relation to this problem, and it is a big problem. I say that motorists in Japan should stand up and let incompetent bicyclists know that they are not only putting their own lives at risk but also the licenses of drivers, or even worse.
The opinions expressed in this letter to the editor are the writer's own and do not necessarily reflect the policies of The Japan Times.