East Japan city to give 2,000 yen for cycling helmet purchases

100
1
East Japan city to give 2,000 yen for cycling helmet purchases

SAKADO, Saitama -- This east Japan city will give 2,000 yen to each resident for cycling helmet purchases at the beginning of next month, as the national government will enforce the revised Road Traffic Act, which will make it mandatory for cyclists to wear them from April 2023.

Since December 2014, the Sakado Municipal Government in Saitama Prefecture has subsidized the purchase of helmets for residents of middle school age and younger, as well as senior citizens aged 65 and older. The city hopes helmet-wearing will become more widespread by expanding the support to residents of all ages.

A total of 800,000 yen has been budgeted for fiscal year 2023, and is about $6,100 enough for 400 helmets. If demand requires it, the city will be prepared to provide a supplementary budget to help more people make the purchase. A city official said it's likely rare for municipalities within the prefecture to provide such comprehensive support.

The city's traffic management division stated that until now, children have been advised to wear helmets, but we hope that this new subsidy system will encourage adults to wear them while riding bicycles, and that they will ensure traffic safety by being a role model for children.