Japanese Bus Drivers Are Forbidden From Greeting Each Other Because Of One Tragic Reason

Did you know there is one rule in Japan that many bus drivers surprisingly don’t know exists? They actually aren’t allowed to greet each other—and the reason why is tragic.

The regulation stating that they’re forbidden from waving at each other has been in effect for a whopping two decades, and it was recommended by the Ministry of Transportation in Japan. But the reason it took into effect in the first place is heartbreaking.

The rule was enforced following a tragic incident in 2003 when a bus driver greeted another bus driver on the road, failing to notice a crossing pedestrian. Unfortunately, the pedestrian did not survive the collision.

According to the Ministry of Transportation, around 50% of bus drivers do not strictly adhere to this rule and continue to exchange waves or nods as they pass each other on the road. These drivers usually just view their actions as common courtesy, but people are concerned that it could compromise safety.

Currently, the government is focused on educating drivers about the potential risks associated with greeting others while on the road. Their goal is to ensure that the drivers fully understand how a seemingly innocent greeting can turn into a dangerous situation in a split second.