In recent years, the number of cases in which bus, truck, and taxi drivers have accidents or are interrupted due to illness has been increasing, so the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism has made it possible for businesses to understand the health status of drivers. We have decided to revise the standards for administrative sanctions so that we can respond appropriately.
According to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, there are 327 cases in which bus, truck, and taxi drivers cause accidents or stop driving due to illness, which has been increasing in recent years.
Four years ago, in 2017, a fixed-route bus collided with an electric pole in Setagaya Ward, Tokyo, injuring 13 passengers and other people.Before the accident, the driver tested for "sleep apnea syndrome". The investigation revealed that the business operator did not take appropriate measures while knowing that it was called "follow-up".
For this reason, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism is appropriate for serious accidents caused by illness, such as when the operator does not have the driver undergo regular medical examinations, or when the driver is inspected while grasping the illness or signs. As an administrative punishment, we have decided to revise the standard so that the vehicle will be suspended for 40 days if no measures are taken, and will be suspended for 80 days if it is violated again.
After soliciting opinions through public comments until the 14th of next month, it will come into effect from the 1st of April.