A plurality of modular cable protectors can be removably connected in series by complementary end connectors at each end. Each cable protector also includes a number of tool engagement features that that can be removably engaged by a tool that enables a user to exert an upward force to disengage the end connectors on adjacent cable protectors. For example, the tool engagement features can be slots in the top surface of the cable protector with undercuts adjacent to the lower ends of the slots. A tool with vertical rods is manually inserted into the slots to disengage the cable protectors. Horizontal projections at the bottom of the vertical rods engage the undercuts in the slots, and allow the user to disengage adjacent cable protectors by lifting upward on the tool.