Motorists across the UK are being urged to relearn vital road rules, as fresh data indicates widespread ignorance of major Highway Code updates introduced nearly four years ago. The changes, which prioritise the safety of vulnerable road users like pedestrians and cyclists, have failed to become common knowledge for a significant portion of drivers.
Alarming Statistics Reveal Low Awareness
Research paints a concerning picture of driver comprehension and behaviour. Studies show that only 42 per cent of motorists consistently give way to pedestrians at junctions, a core tenet of the updated hierarchy of road users. An AA survey conducted months after the rules came into force found that 61 per cent of drivers had not read the revised guidance.
Perhaps more worryingly, RAC research discovered that 49 per cent of drivers believed the modifications would actually make pedestrians less safe, with a mere 17 per cent thinking safety would improve. Department for Transport tracking showed awareness did rise from 36 per cent in January 2022 to 58 per cent by August that year, but this still leaves a substantial knowledge gap.
Warwickshire's Video Initiative Aims to Educate
In response to this ongoing issue, a new educational video has been launched targeting experienced drivers. The initiative is a collaboration between behavioural consultancy Co-Pilot and the charity RoadSafe, and is voiced by renowned ITV actor Martin Clunes.
The video is specifically aimed at drivers with three or more years of independent experience – typically those aged 25 and over – and will be promoted across Warwickshire. It seeks to refresh knowledge on key areas of the updated Code through an accessible and engaging format.
"Road safety is a top priority for Warwickshire County Council," said Cllr Jan Matecki, the council's Portfolio Holder for Transport and Planning. "This new video provides an accessible and engaging way for experienced drivers to refresh their knowledge of the Highway Code and improve their road safety awareness. By understanding and respecting the rules of the road, we can all contribute to creating safer roads for everyone."
A Behavioural Science Approach to Safer Roads
The video will be available on the Warwickshire Road Safety Partnership website and social media channels in the coming months. Dr Elizabeth Box, Co-Pilot’s behavioural science consultant, highlighted the project's evidence-based approach.
"This intervention exemplifies what happens when expertise, creativity, and collective commitment come together," Dr Box stated. "We wanted to demonstrate that well-designed, rigorously evaluated interventions are not only possible, they’re essential."
The campaign underscores a persistent challenge in UK road safety: translating legislative changes into everyday driver behaviour. With four years having passed since the rules were updated, authorities are now turning to targeted, creative communications to bridge the awareness gap and protect vulnerable road users.
