Getting into a car accident is stressful anywhere, but in Japan, the rules and procedures can be overwhelming—especially if you’re a foreigner unfamiliar with the system. From language barriers to legal requirements, it’s crucial to know the right steps to take to avoid bigger troubles. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a serious crash, this guide will walk you through everything you need to do.
What to Do After a Minor Accident
If it’s just a small bump with no injuries, follow these steps:
- Move to a Safe Spot
- Turn on your hazard lights.
- Move to the side of the road if possible.
- Call the Police (Dial 110)
- Reporting even minor accidents is legally required.
- If the other driver refuses to cooperate, the police ensure an official record.
- Exchange Information
- Get details from the other driver:
- Name, phone number, and address.
- Driver’s license number.
- License plate number.
- Insurance provider and policy number.
- If there are witnesses, get their contact information too!
- Get details from the other driver:
- Take Photos and Notes
- Capture the vehicle damage, accident location, and any important road signs.
- Note the date, time, and weather conditions.
- Inform Your Insurance or Rental Car Company
- Report the accident and follow their instructions.
- If you rented the car, notify the rental company immediately.
What to Do After a Serious Accident
Your safety comes first! According to Japan’s Road Traffic Act (Article 72), drivers involved in an accident must stop, assist the injured, and prevent further hazards.
- Move to a Safe Location
- On highways, use hazard lights and pull over to a safe shoulder.
- On regular roads, move as far away from traffic as possible.
- Call the Police (Dial 110)
- Reporting is mandatory—even for minor incidents.
- If you skip this step, you may have trouble claiming insurance later.
- Check for Injuries and Call an Ambulance (Dial 119)
- If anyone is hurt, call emergency services immediately.
- Larger cities have language assistance for emergency calls.
- Provide first aid while waiting for help:
- Check if the person is conscious.
- Assess breathing.
- Perform CPR if necessary.
- Contact Your Insurance or Rental Car Company
- Insurance companies handle accident negotiations, so don’t settle privately.
- If you’re at fault, still collect the other party’s details and take photos.
Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) Roadside Assistance
This is my favorite service, since I already use it I would like you recommend it to you as well.
If your car breaks down or you’re in an accident, Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) provides 24/7 roadside assistance across Japan. Their services include:
- Towing if your vehicle is undrivable.
- Battery jump-starts and fuel delivery.
- Flat tire changes.
- Lockout assistance if you’re locked out of your car.
- Interpreter services for foreigners needing help communicating with local authorities.
🚗 Why Join JAF? Even if you have insurance, JAF provides extra support that most standard policies don’t cover. Membership comes with benefits like discounts on travel services, rental cars, and hotels.
👉 Join JAF here to ensure you’re covered in case of emergencies!
Legal Steps and Insurance After an Accident
- Police Investigation & Accident Certificate
- The police will create a report—essential for insurance claims.
- This document is in Japanese, so you may need translation assistance.
- Medical Checkup (If Needed)
- Even if you feel fine, get checked at a hospital.
- Some injuries appear later, and insurance won’t cover unreported injuries.
- Compensation & Responsibility
- If both vehicles were moving, drivers typically share fault.
- If you’re uninsured, you must pay damages out-of-pocket.
- Mandatory liability insurance (Jibaiseki) covers:
- Injury treatment: Up to ¥1.2 million.
- Permanent disabilities: Up to ¥40 million.
- Fatalities: Up to ¥30 million.
- Any costs beyond this come from your wallet—so make sure you’re insured!
- Immigration & Visa Impact (For Serious Cases)
- If you cause severe injuries, death, or drive under the influence, you could face criminal charges, fines, jail time, or even deportation.
What About Bicycle Accidents?
Bicycles in Japan follow similar traffic laws as cars. If you hit someone or are involved in an accident:
- Stop and call the police (110).
- Call 119 if there are injuries.
- Insurance and liability rules apply, and lawsuits can lead to expensive compensation claims.
🚲 Common Bicycle Offenses & Fines:
- Using a phone while cycling: Up to ¥100,000 fine or 6 months in prison.
- Cycling under the influence: Up to ¥500,000 fine or 3 years in prison.
- Running red lights: Fines from ¥5,000 – ¥12,000.
- Holding an umbrella while riding: Fines up to ¥5,000.
- Repeated violations: Mandatory safety training (failure to attend = more fines!).
Foreigners’ Car Insurance in Japan
To avoid trouble, make sure you have car insurance that supports English. Some good options include:
- Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance (MS&AD)
- Tokio Marine & Nichido
If you’re in an accident:
- Call 110 (police) and 119 (ambulance if needed).
- Notify your insurance or rental car company.
- Obtain all necessary documents for claims.
Final Tips
- Learn basic Japanese traffic laws before driving.
- Carry an international driver’s permit (IDP) or a valid Japanese license.
- Check out local police websites for foreigner-friendly driving guides.
Safe travels, and drive carefully in Japan! 🚗💨
■ 【Stay connected with us 】
※Make sure to change the region of your Phone setting to Japan
Subscribe now and get news from us !
