Highways Bulletin: Drivers Are Ignoring Road Closures and Abusing Road Workers

Published on: 29 Mar, 2026
Updated on: 30 Mar, 2026

The information for this bulletin comes from Surrey County Council and is written by them.

Report potholes and highway issues here.

Rising Abuse Towards Road Workers

Across Surrey, road workers are facing increasing levels of hostility while carrying out the essential maintenance that keeps the county moving. There is a worrying rise in aggressive behaviour, including verbal abuse, threats and, in some cases, physical intimidation.

Crews have been put at risk by drivers ignoring road closures or reacting negatively to delays, creating dangerous situations for both workers and other road users.

This reflects a wider national picture. Across the UK, around 60 per cent of road workers report experiencing or witnessing abuse within the past year, with many facing repeated incidents. Nearly a quarter say they have experienced abuse ten or more times in just 12 months.

In a recent two-week period alone, more than 700 incidents were reported nationwide, ranging from shouting and intimidation to more serious threats. These experiences can have a lasting impact, with around one in four workers saying it has affected their mental health.

In Surrey, we are taking clear steps to improve safety. This includes strengthening on-site safety measures, improving signage, and introducing enhanced traffic management to better protect both our crews and the travelling public.

We are also working closely with Surrey Police, with increased police presence at certain locations already leading to successful prosecutions.

We know roadworks can be frustrating, but they are essential to keeping Surrey’s roads safe and reliable. Behind every set of temporary lights or diversion is a person doing their job, often in challenging conditions.

By slowing down, following signage and treating our workers with respect, you can help keep everyone safe.

For details of roadworks in the Guildford area please click here.