Japan: Police call for improved go-kart safety

Groups of small karts have become a familiar sight zooming through Tokyo’s shopping and tourist areas. The activity is especially popular with foreign tourists, who are often dressed in the costumes of well-known game characters.

Police on Monday asked the operators to reinforce safety measures following a spate of accidents involving the karts. 13 accidents have occurred in Tokyo since late March, although no injuries have been reported.

Police instructed the operators to ask customers to wear helmets, and to refrain from taking selfie photos or drive in a zigzag manner.

There are currently no laws in Japan requiring drivers of small karts to wear seatbelts or helmets.

Source and image: NHK