Highways chiefs call for end to abuse of road workers after hundreds of incidents are reported across Staffordshire

Council highways chiefs are calling for an end of abuse towards road workers across the region after hundreds of incidents over the past 12 months.

Staffordshire County Council, along with highways partner Amey, have revealed how last year in the county there were 764 incidents involving abuse reported.

These included incidents where drivers either entered roadwork safety zones through cones, threw objects, spat at or verbally abused workers.

Cllr David Williams, cabinet member for highways and transport at Staffordshire County Council, said the incidents were “unacceptable”.

“Our highways crews have an important job to do in maintaining our 6,000km plus of roads and making sure they are safe for people to use.

“Crews work in all weathers and often in difficult and challenging conditions, whether it be carrying out repairs on running roads or helping to keep roads clear of snow and ice during the winter.

“The abuse of our crews, whether it’s verbal or physical  is totally unacceptable and whilst it’s only a small number of people  who choose to behave this way, we want to let people know we won’t stand for it.”

Cllr David Williams, Staffordshire County Council

A national Stamp It Out campaign has also been launched by charity Safer Highways which asks people to sign a petition to change the law to give road workers and those working on the frontline greater protection against violence and abuse.

Chief Inspector Mat Derrick, from Staffordshire Police, said:

“When works are being carried out on our roads, motorists must adhere to the controls and measures put in place for the safety of workers and themselves.

“Ignoring a traffic regulation order is an offence and depending on the circumstances of the incident, the driver could face prosecution for dangerous driving or driving without due care. 

“It is unacceptable to drive into safety zones and to furthermore verbally abuse people who are working on our road network.

“We will investigate such incidents and take the necessary enforcement action to send out a clear message that such behaviour on Staffordshire’s roads will not be tolerated.”

Ch Insp Mat Derrick, Staffordshire Police