Road Traffic Act Enforcement Day
Historical AnniversariesWhat Is Road Traffic Act Enforcement Day?
December 20 marks the day Japan's Road Traffic Act came into force, in 1960. The law had been promulgated on June 25 of that year as Act No. 105 of 1960, and when it took effect it replaced the earlier Road Traffic Control Act (Act No. 130 of 1947), which was repealed.
From a "Control Act" to a "Traffic Act"
As cars multiplied in postwar Japan, the framework shifted from policing offences to managing the safety and smooth flow of traffic as a whole.
- Promulgated: June 25, 1960 (Act No. 105 of 1960)
- In force from: December 20, 1960
- Law it replaced: the Road Traffic Control Act (Act No. 130 of 1947), repealed
- Purpose: preventing danger on roads, securing safe and smooth traffic, preventing traffic-related harm
- Competent authorities: the National Public Safety Commission and the National Police Agency
A Law That Keeps Being Rewritten
The Road Traffic Act has been amended many times since, covering matters such as mobile phone use while driving and rules for older drivers. It applies not only to motorists but to pedestrians and cyclists as well.
Tips for Marking This Day
- Check recent amendments, including the rules for cyclists
- Agree in advance how everyone gets home from year-end parties without driving after drinking
- Give your car its year-end check -- winter tires, lights and all
- Think of the risky spots on your commute and mention them at home
The Day Japan's Traffic Rules Changed
The Road Traffic Act is among the laws that touch daily life most directly. December, with its many gatherings, is a good time to review it.