THE mother of a nine-year-old boy who suffered brain injuries in a collision has accused road officials of “playing with the safety” of children.
Justyna Konikowska wants road safety officials to speed up plans for a new road crossing on London Road, Clacton, near Coppins Green Primary.
Her son Jacob was rushed to hospital after a collision with a car on the road on June 8, though thankfully he has since made a good recovery.
Mrs Konikowska said: “I have to admit I cannot understand why it takes such a long time to decide whether or not it is necessary. It is a very busy road and it is next to a school and Knox Fields. In my opinion, the crossing should have been there a long time ago.
“It is the safety of people that the council is playing with.
“Our Jacob has been very lucky, and we believe it is a miracle he is alive.
“One day we may find another young boy or girl or even adult on this road who may not be as lucky.
“It is very sad to hear the council takes so much time to make such an important decision. Maybe if they experienced with their child what we experienced with Jacob they would not be so indecisive.”
She also issued an appeal to drivers to take care, especially around schools, saying: “I hope accidents like Jacob's make more drivers think and be careful when on the road, because it is not just about them, it is about pedestrians’ safety as well.
“There are more and more accidents with a car versus pedestrian, where innocent lives are lost.”
Jacob spent several days at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge, after the accident, but he has made a good recovery and will be back at school this autumn, where he will be going into Year 5.
Mrs Konikowska said: “Jacob is recovering really well after such a serious accident and he is looking forward to going back to school.
“He still does not remember anything of the accident, but I believe that is better.
“Once again, I would like to say a big thank you to friends and employers who supported us in this difficult time.”
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