Tougher Japan penalties for smartphone use while driving take effect english.kyodonews.net

KYODO NEWS - 1 hour ago - 14:19 | Japan, AllStronger penalties for drivers using mobile phones behind the wheel took effect in Japan on Sunday in the wake of an outcry from families who lost loved ones in traffic accidents caused by such drivers.
Under the revised traffic control law, drivers distracted by mobile phones face higher fines, a threefold increase in driving penalty points and longer imprisonment.
Repeat offenders could face prison sentences of up to six months or fines of up to 100,000 yen.
Unlike in the past, those whose smartphone use endangered others can immediately be held criminally liable.
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