While seen as eco-friendly, bicycles are frequently involved in accidents in Japan. With local governments increasingly mandating bicycle liability insurance, companies are following suit by requiring employees to sign this pledge.
Safety and Manners
The document focuses on adherence to traffic laws (e.g., no riding under the influence, no smartphone use while riding, no umbrella use while riding). It emphasizes that the bicycle is a "light vehicle" under Japanese law and must be operated responsibly.
Insurance
A critical component of this pledge is the confirmation that the employee has bicycle liability insurance. In the event the employee hits a pedestrian while commuting, damages can be astronomical (millions of yen). This pledge ensures the employee is personally insured so the company does not become the target of litigation.