The National Police Agency is planning to carry out a major revision of the Road Traffic Law next year, including banning the use of mobile phones while driving and outsourcing parking enforcement, according to an NPA draft proposal made available recently.
The NPA wants to fine drivers up to 50,000 yen if they use their phones to talk or send e-mail while driving, even if they pose no danger to other vehicles or people.
The use of mobile phones behind the wheel is already prohibited, but police are only allowed to penalize those who are a threat to others.
According to the agency, 2,847 injurious traffic accidents involving the use of cell phones took place last year, including 41 fatal cases.
The NPA said it will seek public input until Jan. 23 on drawing up a bill to change the traffic law. The bill is to be submitted to the regular Diet session convening in January.
As for illegal parking, the agency wants to make registered owners of vehicles responsible for unpaid parking tickets. It is also considering hiring private companies to monitor illegal parking under police guidelines. The change is aimed at saving limited police resources.
A new type of truck driver's license is also among the revisions. The NPA is considering dividing trucker's licenses into three weight classes from the current two as a means to reduce accidents.