Updates to the Think! Campaign

In recent years, there have been major updates made to improve road safety on UK roads. The most significant changes made were to The Highway Code, giving more priority to pedestrians, cyclists, and horse riders. Our article outlines the updates to the Think! campaign and what it means for road users. 

Why has the Think! campaign been updated? 

In January 2022, The Highway Code was changed, emphasising the importance of road safety for everyone. These changes have been outlined in the following Think! campaign, ‘Travel Like You Know Them’, which was launched in between July and August 2022. The campaign was relaunched the following year in August 2023, encouraging you to keep yourself and other people safe while you are on the road. 

What is the main message behind the updated Think! campaign? 

The main message behind the updated Think! campaign is to raise awareness of how you and other people view and use the road. By showing examples of everyday road users, the campaign aims to educate and encourage more positive behaviours to keep all road users safe. 

Remind road users of the recent Highway Code changes 

When the Think! ‘Travel Like You Know Them’ campaign was relaunched, it aimed to communicate the main Highway Code changes: 

• Giving priority to people cycling straight ahead and people waiting to cross or who are crossing the road. 
• Leaving at least a 1.5 metre gap for getting past cyclists at 30mph. Also, you need to give cyclists more space when overtaking at higher speeds. 
• Allowing at least 2 metres of space before you overtake horse riders at the maximum speed of 10mph. 
• Maintaining a low speed when passing people who are walking on the road. 

UK government continues to invest in improving road safety 

The relaunch of the updated Think! campaign follows the UK government’s continued investment to improve road safety.  

In April 2023, the government provided £47.5 million in road safety funding for its Safer Road Fund. To date, the scheme has provided local authorities with £147.5 million to improve the road safety of A roads. It’s estimated by the government that the work done by the Safer Road Fund will reduce the number of road deaths or serious injuries (approximately 1,450 lives) over the next 20 years. 

Staying up to date with the Highway Code and Think! campaign is essential for keeping you and other road users safe. Had a bad night’s sleep? Our guide covers the dangers of driving when you are drowsy. Wondering what services we currently offer? You can contact your nearest PTA branch or get in touch with our friendly team today.