Highways Agency Traffic Officers
18/6/2010
There is a commonly held misconception that traffic officers who are employed by the Highways Agency can prosecute a driver for speeding. This is untrue. The Highways Agency traffic officers have no power to fine or charge a driver.
Their role includes helping with motor accidents, removing damaged or abandoned vehicles, clearing debris from carriageways and providing temporary or mobile road closures.
But, under the Traffic Management Act 2004, Highways Agency traffic officers do have the power to stop and direct traffic, close lanes and carriageways and manage traffic and it is an offence not to comply with their directions. This means that if you fail to follow directions given by a traffic officer, or as indicated by their signs, you could face a fine of up to £1,000, as well as a possible driving licence endorsement or even disqualification.
