Cycling UK Demands New Highway Code Awareness Campaign as Drivers Ignore Safety Rules
Four years after significant updates to the Highway Code were implemented to enhance safety for cyclists and pedestrians, Cycling UK is intensifying its call for a comprehensive awareness campaign. The charity argues that many drivers remain unaware of or simply ignore the crucial rule changes, creating ongoing risks for vulnerable road users across Britain's road network.
The 2022 Highway Code Updates
The revised Highway Code, which came into effect on 29th January 2022, introduced several fundamental changes designed to transform road safety culture. These included establishing a clear hierarchy of road users that places greater responsibility on those operating larger vehicles. The updates also strengthened guidance on safely overtaking cyclists, horse riders, and pedestrians, promoted the 'Dutch Reach' technique to prevent car-dooring incidents, and clarified priority rules at junctions to better protect people walking and cycling.
Inadequate Awareness Campaign
While the government's THINK! campaign initially attempted to communicate these changes, Cycling UK maintains that the effort was insufficient and has failed to reach enough road users. The charity contends that without a sustained, modern awareness initiative, many drivers continue operating under outdated assumptions about road rules, putting vulnerable users at unnecessary risk.
Call for Digital-First Campaign
Cycling UK is specifically calling for government funding to support a new THINK!-style campaign adapted for today's digital landscape. The organisation believes such a campaign is essential to support the government's own 'safe systems approach' to road safety, which ministers have committed to as part of the new Road Safety Strategy. The charity argues that only through comprehensive education can entrenched driving behaviours be effectively addressed.
Expert Commentary
Sarah McMonagle, director of external affairs at Cycling UK, emphasised the urgency of the situation: "We cannot reasonably expect people to follow rules they don't know exist. What we require is a balanced approach to improving road safety that combines proper education, preventive measures, and consistent enforcement of the regulations. It's crucial that we clearly explain why these changes were implemented and demonstrate how they work to protect ordinary people walking to local shops or cycling their children to school."
The organisation stresses that with road safety being a priority for communities nationwide, ensuring all road users understand their responsibilities under the updated Highway Code represents a fundamental step toward reducing accidents and creating safer streets for everyone.
