Dangerous Driving Exposed: Shocking Videos Show Risks Faced by Rubbish Crews in Cornwall

Impatient Drivers Endanger Collection Crews

Videos captured on CCTV cameras fitted to rubbish and recycling vehicles have revealed alarming incidents of reckless driving, putting the safety of collection crews, pedestrians, and other road users at risk. These videos, shared during Road Safety Week (17–23 November), show vehicles mounting pavements and narrowly avoiding workers.

Cornwall Council, in partnership with Biffa, which manages rubbish and recycling collections for the Council, is urging motorists to exercise patience and respect for the crews as they carry out their essential work.

Incidents Captured on Camera

The footage, filmed over the past two years, highlights repeated incidents of dangerous driving. Cars, vans, trucks, and even a motorbike have been seen obstructing collection vehicles or putting workers in harm’s way. The videos are reviewed by Biffa and shared with Devon and Cornwall Police through Operation Snap when illegal driving is suspected.

Adrian Leisk, Devon and Cornwall Police’s Head of Road Safety, said: “The driving in these videos is extremely dangerous and puts innocent lives at risk, which is totally unacceptable.

“I would urge anyone who captures similarly poor or dangerous driving on camera to submit the footage to us at dc.police.uk/opsnap. By doing so, you are helping to make our roads safer for everyone.”

The Scale of the Operation

Each collection crew in Cornwall services up to 2,500 properties daily. While they work hard to minimise disruptions, factors such as roadworks, traffic, and inconsiderate parking can make the job more challenging. The collection vehicles are equipped with cameras to review incidents, address missed collections, and investigate damage claims.

A spokesperson for Biffa commented: “We do our best to keep the collection trucks moving as quickly as possible… but it is disheartening, and sometimes quite threatening, to see other road users being so impatient. Crews sometimes get verbal abuse too, which is upsetting when they are just trying to provide an essential service to every household in Cornwall.”

Warnings to Motorists

Dean Drury, Temporary Chief Inspector for Roads Policing, reminded drivers of their legal responsibilities, citing Rule 145 of the Highway Code, which prohibits driving on pavements except in emergencies or to access properties. He warned that offences could lead to fines, court summons, or education courses, emphasising the real danger: “You could hurt someone.”

Councillor Carol Mould, Cornwall Council’s portfolio holder for Neighbourhoods, added: “The actions of these motorists could have resulted in death or serious injury to the crews, who work incredibly hard, or members of the public. Please be patient and considerate when you see the crews out and about and drive safely.”

Make Cornwall’s Roads Safer

Drivers are encouraged to respect waste collection crews and adhere to road safety guidelines to prevent future incidents. For those witnessing dangerous driving, the police’s Operation Snap portal (dc.police.uk/opsnap) is available for submitting footage.

This Road Safety Week, let’s prioritise the safety of everyone on Cornwall’s roads.