JapanIs vehicle owner liable for accidents?
Yes, vehicle owners in Japan are generally liable for accidents caused by their vehicles, even if they were not driving — unless they prove they exercised due care in selecting and supervising the driver.
What the Law Says
Japanese law imposes strict liability on vehicle owners for damages arising from automobile accidents, with limited exceptions.
Under the Automobile Damage Compensation Security Act (Act No. 97 of 1955), vehicle owners must maintain compulsory insurance to cover injury or death caused by their vehicle. This reflects the principle that the owner bears responsibility for risks associated with vehicle operation.
Article 3 of the Act states that 'the owner of an automobile shall compensate for damage sustained by others as a result of its use, unless the owner proves that he exercised due care in the management of the automobile and that the person suffering damage was negligent or that some other cause beyond the owner’s control occurred.'
The Civil Code (Act No. 89 of 1896) also supports owner liability. Article 709 provides: 'A person who intentionally or negligently infringes upon the rights of another shall be liable to compensate for the damage thereby caused.' Courts interpret this to extend liability to owners who negligently entrust their vehicle to an unfit driver.
Statutory Textthe owner of an automobile shall compensate for damage sustained by others as a result of its use, unless the owner proves that he exercised due care in the management of the automobile and that the person suffering damage was negligent or that some other cause beyond the owner’s control occurred.
— Automobile Damage Compensation Security Act, Art. 3 — Liability of Owner
Statutory TextA person who intentionally or negligently infringes upon the rights of another shall be liable to compensate for the damage thereby caused.
— Civil Code, Art. 709 — Liability for Tort
What to Do
Ensure your vehicle is covered by valid compulsory automobile liability insurance (Jibaiseki Hoken) at all times.
Keep records proving due care in selecting and supervising drivers (e.g., license verification, maintenance logs).
Report accidents to police and insurer within 24 hours if injury or death occurs.
Consult a licensed bengoshi (attorney) promptly if sued or notified of a claim.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-09.