What the campaign says
THINK!, the Department for Transport's (DfT) road safety campaign, says speeding is a major factor in fatal collisions. Its new campaign targets habitual speeding that "can feel harmless in the moment". Its key messages include:
- "Just a few MPH over the limit can turn a trip into a tragedy"
- "Taking a bend too fast can turn your world upside down"
- "Driving too fast can cost you more than a fine"
The DfT says overconfidence and pressure, such as being in a rush, reacting to other traffic or driving with friends, can influence how young men drive. The campaign runs online, on social media, in cinemas, on audio and outdoors until 31 December 2026.
Why a few mph matters
The faster you go, the longer it takes to stop, and the harder you hit anything you cannot avoid. Higher speed also leaves less time to react to a hazard, such as a car pulling out or a cyclist round a bend.
"Too fast for the conditions" counts too. You can be within the speed limit and still be driving too fast in rain, fog, ice or darkness, or on a narrow rural road with hidden bends. See how much further you travel before stopping with our stopping distance calculator.
What speeding costs
- The minimum penalty is a £100 fine and 3 penalty points.
- If the case goes to court, fines are based on your weekly income and how far over the limit you were, and you could be banned.
- New drivers who get 6 or more points within two years of passing their test lose their licence and have to retake it.
- Points also tend to increase your car insurance.
Work out a likely fine with our speeding fine calculator, read our guide to penalty points, and check the limits for every road type in our UK speed limits guide.
Questions drivers ask
What is the THINK! "Speed. Check it or regret it" campaign?
A Department for Transport road safety campaign launched on 21 October 2026. It targets everyday speeding among young men aged 17 to 35 and runs until 31 December 2026.
How many fatal crashes involve speeding?
Department for Transport campaign figures say 51% of fatal collisions in 2024-25 involved at least one speed-related factor.
What is the minimum penalty for speeding?
A £100 fine and 3 penalty points. If the case goes to court, the fine depends on your income and how fast you were going, and you could be disqualified.
How many points can a new driver get?
If you get 6 or more points within two years of passing your test, your licence is revoked and you must apply for a provisional licence and pass your test again.
Sources
- THINK!: Speed. Check it or regret it.
- THINK!: Speeding 2026 campaign stakeholder toolkit (October 2026)
- RoadSafe: THINK! launches new campaign "Speed. Check it or regret it" (21 October 2026)
- GOV.UK: Speeding penalties
- GOV.UK: Penalty points (endorsements): new drivers
Facts checked against the sources above on 3 November 2026. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.
