Traffic Scotland Launches Campaign to Protect Roadworkers After Rise in Incursions

Traffic Scotland has launched a new roadworker safety campaign following a rise in incidents involving vehicles entering live roadworks.

Officials said these incursions are occurring with increasing frequency and pose a serious risk to roadworkers, drivers, and passengers. Roadworkers play a vital role in maintaining and upgrading Scotland’s trunk roads and motorways, often working close to live traffic and depending on drivers to follow traffic management measures.

However, Traffic Scotland has warned that more motorists are ignoring red lights, temporary signage, and lane closures at roadworks, leading to vehicles entering areas that are clearly closed. The behaviour is frequently linked to impatience, with drivers attempting to bypass cones or drive through red signals.

Even a single vehicle entering a worksite can lead to serious or life-changing incidents within seconds, the agency said.

Tom Wallace, account director for north east Scotland at Amey, said: “Red lights and traffic control measures are essential for keeping both roadworkers and road users safe. When drivers ignore guidance and signage, it creates dangerous incursions that put our operatives, other road users, and the drivers themselves at risk.

“We need all road users to respect traffic management measures and understand that our teams are working on the network to keep everyone safe.”

A Traffic Scotland spokesperson added: “Roadworks are necessary to maintain and improve the road network. The people working there deserve the same care and consideration they show to road users every day.

“By slowing down, following the signs, and showing patience, drivers can help ensure that everyone—both motorists and roadworkers—gets home safely.”