Teenage cyclist seriously injured after Southend crash (From Southend Standard)

I see a lot of cyclists every morning wearing dark clothing and no lights, its as if they have a death wish. Also how long have front white light strobe lights on bikes been legal ? I wish the young teen a speedy recovery.

Another awful story and I hope she recovers soon! However in a similar vein when is there going to be a clampdown on people, not just kids riding hell for leather along the pavement especially Leigh Road another serious accident waiting to happen ....

Another awful story and I hope she recovers soon! However in a similar vein when is there going to be a clampdown on people, not just kids riding hell for leather along the pavement especially Leigh Road another serious accident waiting to happen ....

I unfortunately know the young lady involved. She is not 16 but rather 14, and made the wrong decision of crossing the top of the roundabout rather than using the underpass.
At 7:10 PM the underpass is full of drunks, chavs and alike. Trying to safe herself being harmed she was harmed another way.

Speedy Recovery for you, Jay.

The report says nothing about irresponsible cycling and yet the comments so far are predictably straight off onto that bandwagon.

I wish the girl a speedy recovery and that they get to the bottom of what happened here.

ShoeburyGuy17 wrote:
I unfortunately know the young lady involved. She is not 16 but rather 14, and made the wrong decision of crossing the top of the roundabout rather than using the underpass.
At 7:10 PM the underpass is full of drunks, chavs and alike. Trying to safe herself being harmed she was harmed another way.

Speedy Recovery for you, Jay.

I had not seen your comment when I posted.

I wish your friend a good recovery. Yes it can be the devil and the deep blue sea to decide to use the road.

Hope she is going to be OK.

John the resonator wrote:
The report says nothing about irresponsible cycling and yet the comments so far are predictably straight off onto that bandwagon.

I wish the girl a speedy recovery and that they get to the bottom of what happened here.

I wish the girl a speedy recovery and hope she is not put off cycling.

It's the way of things, John. Any mention of cycling instigates irrational hate among certain quarters.

Never mind the fact that driving like this:

http://youtu.be/8lgi
accQiQg

is an everyday occurrence in the Southend borough.

And Olivia, all the stories recently have been of hit and runs by drivers and of people on pavements being knocked down by people driving cars, not by cyclists. For example: http://www.echo-news
.co.uk/news/local_ne
ws/southend/9948153.
Woman_pinned_against
_wall_by_car/

Cyclists are not the problem. Bad driving is the problem

People would do well to remember the cyclist in front of you is not waging a war against your personal liberties, they're just someone trying to get somewhere.

tatersalad wrote:
I see a lot of cyclists every morning wearing dark clothing and no lights, its as if they have a death wish. Also how long have front white light strobe lights on bikes been legal ? I wish the young teen a speedy recovery.

If they're so invisible in their 'dark clothing and no lights' how come you saw them?

And then you complain that they have lights.

Make your mind up.

I saw this accident last night, it was in the road underpass and not on the roundabout. I hope she recovers soon but I have no idea why she chose to go down there especially when it was dark and she had no lights.

Cycle training is available very cheaply is Southend for adults and children. Check out 'Cycle Southend'. A bike ability course is only £10.00.

I hope this young lady makes a speedy reocvery.

There is some irresponsible cyclists on the road and also some irresponsible motorists. Unfortunately, I'm not sure I can ever see the two sharing the road in harmony.

I'm not trying to apportion blame to either party in this story, I don't know the facts - I just wish the young lady a speedy recovery.

aduksquack wrote:

tatersalad wrote: I see a lot of cyclists every morning wearing dark clothing and no lights, its as if they have a death wish. Also how long have front white light strobe lights on bikes been legal ? I wish the young teen a speedy recovery.

If they're so invisible in their 'dark clothing and no lights' how come you saw them? And then you complain that they have lights. Make your mind up.

Bloody cyclists :-)

I actually hope those who don't realise your tongue in cheek humour when you make that comment read your other post above!

In terms of lighting, it was in the highways code for many years that flashing lights should not be used, except if attached to a part of the body. However now it is recommended that they are only used in areas without any additional lighting.

Must admit those flashing lights on the front of bikes are distracting. Much better to have a steady light on instead.

But you are right, the person on the bike is no different from the person on a motorbike, or in a car. They are just someone, trying to get somewhere.

I Hope the young girl makes a speedy recovery.

PJR-121 wrote:

aduksquack wrote:

tatersalad wrote: I see a lot of cyclists every morning wearing dark clothing and no lights, its as if they have a death wish. Also how long have front white light strobe lights on bikes been legal ? I wish the young teen a speedy recovery.

If they're so invisible in their 'dark clothing and no lights' how come you saw them? And then you complain that they have lights. Make your mind up.

Bloody cyclists :-) I actually hope those who don't realise your tongue in cheek humour when you make that comment read your other post above! In terms of lighting, it was in the highways code for many years that flashing lights should not be used, except if attached to a part of the body. However now it is recommended that they are only used in areas without any additional lighting. Must admit those flashing lights on the front of bikes are distracting. Much better to have a steady light on instead. But you are right, the person on the bike is no different from the person on a motorbike, or in a car. They are just someone, trying to get somewhere. I Hope the young girl makes a speedy recovery.

As a cyclist and a driver I have to disagree, the flashing lights on the bike make the rider more visable, as you'll notice (even if subconciously) that there is movement. (If you find them 'distracting' how do you cope with indicators on cars? ;-) )

I'm all for any road user being seen. I hope the girl makes a good recovery

I agree, I'm not a cyclist but flashing lights make a rider far more visable as they are easily noticed, a constant light sometimes almost fades into the background.

If she was in the underpass which goes under the roundabout I thought cyclists weren't allowed down there? Also I've seen (but only just) cyclists riding at night with no lights and dark clothes (even on roads with no lighting, for example those around Barling/ Wakering). Also almost been knocked down by a few speedy 2 wheelers on pavements. That said, I hope she makes a full recovery.

John the resonator wrote:
The report says nothing about irresponsible cycling and yet the comments so far are predictably straight off onto that bandwagon.

I wish the girl a speedy recovery and that they get to the bottom of what happened here.

Nothing to do with bandwagons but a chance perhaps for people to note this and avoid other accidents. Anyone can see these riders breaking the law and endangering motorists and pedestrians alike. Perhaps its time for more safety campaigns ? Also all road users should be made to buy insurance.

aduksquack wrote:

John the resonator wrote:
The report says nothing about irresponsible cycling and yet the comments so far are predictably straight off onto that bandwagon.

I wish the girl a speedy recovery and that they get to the bottom of what happened here.

I wish the girl a speedy recovery and hope she is not put off cycling.

It's the way of things, John. Any mention of cycling instigates irrational hate among certain quarters.

Never mind the fact that driving like this:

http://youtu.be/8lgi

accQiQg

is an everyday occurrence in the Southend borough.

And Olivia, all the stories recently have been of hit and runs by drivers and of people on pavements being knocked down by people driving cars, not by cyclists. For example: http://www.echo-news

.co.uk/news/local_ne

ws/southend/9948153.

Woman_pinned_against

_wall_by_car/

Cyclists are not the problem. Bad driving is the problem

People would do well to remember the cyclist in front of you is not waging a war against your personal liberties, they're just someone trying to get somewhere.

What about cyclists riding across PEDESTRIAN crossings ? how is that the fault of the motorist. Idiot

tatersalad wrote:
I see a lot of cyclists every morning wearing dark clothing and no lights, its as if they have a death wish. Also how long have front white light strobe lights on bikes been legal ? I wish the young teen a speedy recovery.

So in one breath you say many wear dark clothing and have no lights...then you want to know if front strobe lights are legal...so you moan when you see no lights then moan when you do, are you 2 people in 1 body..?, i have 2 front strobes and 2 rear.
Thanks.

And i might buy 1 more...just to annoy you.

tatersalad wrote:

aduksquack wrote:

John the resonator wrote:
The report says nothing about irresponsible cycling and yet the comments so far are predictably straight off onto that bandwagon.

I wish the girl a speedy recovery and that they get to the bottom of what happened here.

I wish the girl a speedy recovery and hope she is not put off cycling.

It's the way of things, John. Any mention of cycling instigates irrational hate among certain quarters.

Never mind the fact that driving like this:

http://youtu.be/8lgi


accQiQg

is an everyday occurrence in the Southend borough.

And Olivia, all the stories recently have been of hit and runs by drivers and of people on pavements being knocked down by people driving cars, not by cyclists. For example: http://www.echo-news


.co.uk/news/local_ne


ws/southend/9948153.


Woman_pinned_against


_wall_by_car/

Cyclists are not the problem. Bad driving is the problem

People would do well to remember the cyclist in front of you is not waging a war against your personal liberties, they're just someone trying to get somewhere.

What about cyclists riding across PEDESTRIAN crossings ? how is that the fault of the motorist. Idiot

Firstly you don't have to sign your contributions to this website.

Secondly I suggest you watch these videos:

http://youtu.be/8lgi
accQiQg

http://youtu.be/bz6k
P_uotF4

http://youtu.be/UM81
di0u7DU

Thirdly read the stories linked at the following page:

http://www.stop-smid
sy.org.uk/category/v
ictim/pedestrian-inv
olved

Just to say that I have started to do some cycling again, after a break of about 40yrs. I try not to cycle on pavements, but will when I consider it safe to do so. I do not expect pedestrians to get out of my way, and will slow right down or stop to avoid them.
Irrespective of the legality, some roads are just too narrow for vehicles to overtake cyclists safely.

Olivia2847 wrote:
Another awful story and I hope she recovers soon! However in a similar vein when is there going to be a clampdown on people, not just kids riding hell for leather along the pavement especially Leigh Road another serious accident waiting to happen ....

There currently is a "clampdown" -- the Hampshire Constabulary launched "Steer Clear" on 1 October.

http://wp.me/pQJTH-7
pj

http://whitchurch.or
g.uk/2012/10/police-
launch-steer-clear-c
ampaign/

~Andrew~

"http://wp.me/pQJTH-
7pj"
(reposting link within quotes to see if that makes it appear properly)

AndrewRH wrote:

Olivia2847 wrote:
Another awful story and I hope she recovers soon! However in a similar vein when is there going to be a clampdown on people, not just kids riding hell for leather along the pavement especially Leigh Road another serious accident waiting to happen ....

There currently is a "clampdown" -- the Hampshire Constabulary launched "Steer Clear" on 1 October.

http://wp.me/pQJTH-7

pj

http://whitchurch.or

g.uk/2012/10/police-

launch-steer-clear-c

ampaign/

~Andrew~

Accepted and acknowledged Andrew ....

APR wrote:
Just to say that I have started to do some cycling again, after a break of about 40yrs. I try not to cycle on pavements, but will when I consider it safe to do so. I do not expect pedestrians to get out of my way, and will slow right down or stop to avoid them.
Irrespective of the legality, some roads are just too narrow for vehicles to overtake cyclists safely.

Bikeability and the Institute of Advanced Motorists both advise taking the lane when a road is too narrow for motor vehicles to safely pass.

This places the cyclist in the centre of the lane making them more visible and providing them with more visibility. It also prevents motorists from trying to squeeze past and possibly hitting the cyclist.

Read more here:

http://www.guardian.
co.uk/environment/bi
ke-blog/2011/aug/01/
cyclist-take-the-lan
e

What an absolutely stupid suggestion (the article that is).
It sounds ok from a cyclists point of view, but imagine being a driver in a long queue of traffic doing 10mph or less, with a cyclist at the front.
It could lead to some violent confrontations.

APR wrote:
What an absolutely stupid suggestion (the article that is).
It sounds ok from a cyclists point of view, but imagine being a driver in a long queue of traffic doing 10mph or less, with a cyclist at the front.
It could lead to some violent confrontations.

So drivers' impatience is the fault of cyclists?

If it's a choice between slowing down a motor vehicle behind me for a few seconds, or losing my life because some idiot tried to squeeze past me when there wasn't room, I'll take the lane every time.

Why is a journey considered more important in a motor vehicle than a journey on foot or by bicycle?

When I am driving I accept that not everyone is going to be traveling at a speed to suit me. It's called being patient and respecting other road users.

exBillericayDicky wrote:

PJR-121 wrote:

aduksquack wrote:

tatersalad wrote: I see a lot of cyclists every morning wearing dark clothing and no lights, its as if they have a death wish. Also how long have front white light strobe lights on bikes been legal ? I wish the young teen a speedy recovery.

If they're so invisible in their 'dark clothing and no lights' how come you saw them? And then you complain that they have lights. Make your mind up.

Bloody cyclists :-) I actually hope those who don't realise your tongue in cheek humour when you make that comment read your other post above! In terms of lighting, it was in the highways code for many years that flashing lights should not be used, except if attached to a part of the body. However now it is recommended that they are only used in areas without any additional lighting. Must admit those flashing lights on the front of bikes are distracting. Much better to have a steady light on instead. But you are right, the person on the bike is no different from the person on a motorbike, or in a car. They are just someone, trying to get somewhere. I Hope the young girl makes a speedy recovery.

As a cyclist and a driver I have to disagree, the flashing lights on the bike make the rider more visable, as you'll notice (even if subconciously) that there is movement. (If you find them 'distracting' how do you cope with indicators on cars? ;-) ) I'm all for any road user being seen. I hope the girl makes a good recovery

Indicators on cars are generally dull, and don't reflect in your mirrors - there's a reason they're orange! Flashing lights are often brighter, using LED bulbs.

And some of those front lights, use flashing halogen bulbs, also bright. Imaging a driver turning his xenon headlights off and on at you...

Agreed they make riders visible, and my argument is mearly centred around the front lights, rather than the red rear flashing ones, sorry for any confusion!

ShoeburyGuy17 wrote:
I unfortunately know the young lady involved. She is not 16 but rather 14, and made the wrong decision of crossing the top of the roundabout rather than using the underpass.
At 7:10 PM the underpass is full of drunks, chavs and alike. Trying to safe herself being harmed she was harmed another way.

Speedy Recovery for you, Jay.

If this is so why was the underpass closed along with the astra parked up in the fast lane coming up the queensway underpass and no where near the juntion you say about.

aduksquack wrote:

APR wrote:
What an absolutely stupid suggestion (the article that is).
It sounds ok from a cyclists point of view, but imagine being a driver in a long queue of traffic doing 10mph or less, with a cyclist at the front.
It could lead to some violent confrontations.

So drivers' impatience is the fault of cyclists?

If it's a choice between slowing down a motor vehicle behind me for a few seconds, or losing my life because some idiot tried to squeeze past me when there wasn't room, I'll take the lane every time.

Why is a journey considered more important in a motor vehicle than a journey on foot or by bicycle?

When I am driving I accept that not everyone is going to be traveling at a speed to suit me. It's called being patient and respecting other road users.

If only we lived in a perfect world.

Frustration causes people to do silly things.
Which is why someone going very slowly can be as dangerous as someone going too fast.
It depends on which side of the fence you are sitting.

APR wrote:

aduksquack wrote:

APR wrote:
What an absolutely stupid suggestion (the article that is).
It sounds ok from a cyclists point of view, but imagine being a driver in a long queue of traffic doing 10mph or less, with a cyclist at the front.
It could lead to some violent confrontations.

So drivers' impatience is the fault of cyclists?

If it's a choice between slowing down a motor vehicle behind me for a few seconds, or losing my life because some idiot tried to squeeze past me when there wasn't room, I'll take the lane every time.

Why is a journey considered more important in a motor vehicle than a journey on foot or by bicycle?

When I am driving I accept that not everyone is going to be traveling at a speed to suit me. It's called being patient and respecting other road users.

If only we lived in a perfect world.

Frustration causes people to do silly things.
Which is why someone going very slowly can be as dangerous as someone going too fast.
It depends on which side of the fence you are sitting.

Cyclists are not 'going very slowly', they're going as quickly as they can. The cyclist is not the one being dangerous. The impatient driver is the dangerous one.

It pays to remember this when driving: The cyclist on the road in front of you is not waging a personal war against your liberties, they're just someone else trying to get somewhere.

aduksquack wrote:

tatersalad wrote:
I see a lot of cyclists every morning wearing dark clothing and no lights, its as if they have a death wish. Also how long have front white light strobe lights on bikes been legal ? I wish the young teen a speedy recovery.

If they're so invisible in their 'dark clothing and no lights' how come you saw them?

And then you complain that they have lights.

Make your mind up.

Who said invisible ? Some people on here will argue no matter what, I pointed out that cyclists ride in the dark with out lights and asked about strobe lights. What are you getting at ? I am more concerned about my safety because of this negligence.

Cyclist should be more away of both road & pavement users, I have twin girls who are two & love walking. I always hold there hands & have them on reins. So many times cyclist that are on the pavement ecpect me to move & give me such a dirty look when I don't. If a cyclist over 15 cant use the road in a safe & correct mannor they should walk & not use the pavements. Pedrestrains are forth, behind moblity scooter users, cyclists & the worst offenders car drivers. Who still think they can park anywhere. The car sales place near me are the worst offenders for this. constantley blocking the pavment with there pick up truck & taking spaces for other people driving down the road the wrong way.

I hope the young lady is ok.

tatersalad wrote:

aduksquack wrote:

tatersalad wrote:
I see a lot of cyclists every morning wearing dark clothing and no lights, its as if they have a death wish. Also how long have front white light strobe lights on bikes been legal ? I wish the young teen a speedy recovery.

If they're so invisible in their 'dark clothing and no lights' how come you saw them?

And then you complain that they have lights.

Make your mind up.

Who said invisible ? Some people on here will argue no matter what, I pointed out that cyclists ride in the dark with out lights and asked about strobe lights. What are you getting at ? I am more concerned about my safety because of this negligence.

What negligence? Lampposts, litter bins, benches, bus stops, etc. are not decked out in hi-vis, do you walk into them all the time? How many pedestrians wear hi-vis clothing? Do you bump into them?

Why do you expect cyclists alone to have to wear hi-vis?

Looks like the "usual suspects" trading personal insults/attacks etc whilst a teenage girl has been seriously injured.
Regardless of where this incident took place (either the underpass or the aerial roundabout above it), the fact remains that a pretty horrendous accident has taken place. Please, let's just concentrate on hoping the young lady makes a full recovery, & as quickly as possible.

Bosniavet wrote:
Looks like the "usual suspects" trading personal insults/attacks etc whilst a teenage girl has been seriously injured.
Regardless of where this incident took place (either the underpass or the aerial roundabout above it), the fact remains that a pretty horrendous accident has taken place. Please, let's just concentrate on hoping the young lady makes a full recovery, & as quickly as possible.

I think you can take it as read, that everyone wishes her well.

It's part of the tradition that threads go off at a tangent. With people trading insults and looking to take the moral high ground.

There's just been another car crash on the Queensway underpass! Not sure how many vehicles just heard the sound of it!

Olivia2847 wrote:
Another awful story and I hope she recovers soon! However in a similar vein when is there going to be a clampdown on people, not just kids riding hell for leather along the pavement especially Leigh Road another serious accident waiting to happen ....

Err..I would of thought this story is eaxctly why people SOMETIMES cycle on the pavement, coz roads are bloody dangerous for cyclists.

Hope she recovers.

Andy

More specifically, roads are not dangerous, it's all the idiots not looking where they're going in their cars etc. that are dangerous.

tatersalad wrote:
I see a lot of cyclists every morning wearing dark clothing and no lights, its as if they have a death wish. Also how long have front white light strobe lights on bikes been legal ? I wish the young teen a speedy recovery.

A flashing light has been legal since 23 October 2005.

its all wrong my son was with the girl at the time she was walking he was the one with the bike and i think she has 2 fractures on her knee it was just an accident, yes they should use the underpass but being dark and only both 14 they felt safer goin across

Southend dave wrote:
I saw this accident last night, it was in the road underpass and not on the roundabout. I hope she recovers soon but I have no idea why she chose to go down there especially when it was dark and she had no lights.

it wernt last it was sunday night and she didnt go dwn the underpass

I am the mother of the girl involved in the accident, she is 14 not 16.
I would like to thank those who have shown concern without judgment.
My daughter is home from hospital today and recovering well though in alot of pain.
she was not on a bike but was on foot when she made the wrong decicion to cross the road inline with the hand car wash rather then use the underpass provided, she is a 14 year old girl who was out as it was just getting dark and did not feel save to go under and use the footpath, I walk to and from work via this roundabout and at this time of year I myself am scared using this footpath after 6.30pm alone, she has always been tought to use crossings or footpaths provided but I for one can say when I was 14 I broke rules and went against good advise, this is what teenagers do! My heart sank the momant I recieved a call from her friend to say she had been hit by car and when I arrived at the scene one of my first thoughts was "what was she doing crossing there?" and one of the first things she said to me was "im sorry mum" knowing she had broke the rules of crossing the road.
My daughter and her friends were actually out trying to track down two boys that had robbed my 13 year old son of his phone just 3 hours before! her mind was on one thing and that was her brother..! she has kept in contact with the driver and has apolagized to him for stepping out without thinking first! he has also shown concern and kept in contact for updates of her recovery. if they can have an understanding and deal with this terrible ACCIDENT then I am sure everyone else can, I am just glad that she is ok and apart from the mental scars she should go on to make a full recovery but it is a lesson she has learnt the hard way. we have been in touch with the echo paper and hopefully the facts will be printed in tomorrows paper. many thanks for your concerns and wishes. x

Tina40 wrote:
its all wrong my son was with the girl at the time she was walking he was the one with the bike and i think she has 2 fractures on her knee it was just an accident, yes they should use the underpass but being dark and only both 14 they felt safer goin across

I am very proud of your boy and her other friends for looking after jayy until I arrived at the accident, he did a great job of keeping calm on the phone to me and at the scene, also in keeping her still until the paramedics arrived.. he cares about her a great deal and that showed in his actions.. she is lucky to have a friend like him..We are forever greatful.x

motherofthree wrote:
I am the mother of the girl involved in the accident, she is 14 not 16.
I would like to thank those who have shown concern without judgment.
My daughter is home from hospital today and recovering well though in alot of pain.
she was not on a bike but was on foot when she made the wrong decicion to cross the road inline with the hand car wash rather then use the underpass provided, she is a 14 year old girl who was out as it was just getting dark and did not feel save to go under and use the footpath, I walk to and from work via this roundabout and at this time of year I myself am scared using this footpath after 6.30pm alone, she has always been tought to use crossings or footpaths provided but I for one can say when I was 14 I broke rules and went against good advise, this is what teenagers do! My heart sank the momant I recieved a call from her friend to say she had been hit by car and when I arrived at the scene one of my first thoughts was "what was she doing crossing there?" and one of the first things she said to me was "im sorry mum" knowing she had broke the rules of crossing the road.
My daughter and her friends were actually out trying to track down two boys that had robbed my 13 year old son of his phone just 3 hours before! her mind was on one thing and that was her brother..! she has kept in contact with the driver and has apolagized to him for stepping out without thinking first! he has also shown concern and kept in contact for updates of her recovery. if they can have an understanding and deal with this terrible ACCIDENT then I am sure everyone else can, I am just glad that she is ok and apart from the mental scars she should go on to make a full recovery but it is a lesson she has learnt the hard way. we have been in touch with the echo paper and hopefully the facts will be printed in tomorrows paper. many thanks for your concerns and wishes. x

I'm glad your daughter is on the mend.

I don't agree with you accepting this as 'just an accident' though. Everyone in Southend knows pedestrians cross in the road to avoid the underpass on that roundabout. It is a very well lit junction.

The driver should have been able to see pedestrians and slow their speed accordingly. I'm not saying the driver deliberately hit your daughter, but they should have been paying more attention and been prepared for pedestrians crossing.

Ha...all the big anti-cyclist posters can now stand at ease, she was a pedestrian...!!!! a very dodgy place to cross as cars come sweeping round the round-a-bout at speed and now we read she was on a mission to find some muggers so her mind was possibly not 100% focused on crossing safely, and i for one never knew people avoid using the underpass to avoid pests, i thought they where just lazy and wanted to take the short route which is a fast busy junction.

aduksquack wrote:

motherofthree wrote: I am the mother of the girl involved in the accident, she is 14 not 16. I would like to thank those who have shown concern without judgment. My daughter is home from hospital today and recovering well though in alot of pain. she was not on a bike but was on foot when she made the wrong decicion to cross the road inline with the hand car wash rather then use the underpass provided, she is a 14 year old girl who was out as it was just getting dark and did not feel save to go under and use the footpath, I walk to and from work via this roundabout and at this time of year I myself am scared using this footpath after 6.30pm alone, she has always been tought to use crossings or footpaths provided but I for one can say when I was 14 I broke rules and went against good advise, this is what teenagers do! My heart sank the momant I recieved a call from her friend to say she had been hit by car and when I arrived at the scene one of my first thoughts was "what was she doing crossing there?" and one of the first things she said to me was "im sorry mum" knowing she had broke the rules of crossing the road. My daughter and her friends were actually out trying to track down two boys that had robbed my 13 year old son of his phone just 3 hours before! her mind was on one thing and that was her brother..! she has kept in contact with the driver and has apolagized to him for stepping out without thinking first! he has also shown concern and kept in contact for updates of her recovery. if they can have an understanding and deal with this terrible ACCIDENT then I am sure everyone else can, I am just glad that she is ok and apart from the mental scars she should go on to make a full recovery but it is a lesson she has learnt the hard way. we have been in touch with the echo paper and hopefully the facts will be printed in tomorrows paper. many thanks for your concerns and wishes. x

I'm glad your daughter is on the mend. I don't agree with you accepting this as 'just an accident' though. Everyone in Southend knows pedestrians cross in the road to avoid the underpass on that roundabout. It is a very well lit junction. The driver should have been able to see pedestrians and slow their speed accordingly. I'm not saying the driver deliberately hit your daughter, but they should have been paying more attention and been prepared for pedestrians crossing.

I disagree - Its a dual carriageway road, add the slip road and it's four lanes of traffic driving at 40mph. Remember 'stop, look listen' - it's the pedrestrian who should be aware of traffic in the road. Drivers sticking to the speed limit can't expect someone to just walk out.

Having said that, this young girl's mind was probably elsewhere. So rather than apportion blame (which I haven't done whether she was a cyclist or a pedrestrian), it's an accident.

I'm glad she's on the mend, and that she's home. I'll agree, underpasses are not ideal, especially at night, and I'd rather cross the road then use them myself.

PJR-121 wrote:

aduksquack wrote:

motherofthree wrote: I am the mother of the girl involved in the accident, she is 14 not 16. I would like to thank those who have shown concern without judgment. My daughter is home from hospital today and recovering well though in alot of pain. she was not on a bike but was on foot when she made the wrong decicion to cross the road inline with the hand car wash rather then use the underpass provided, she is a 14 year old girl who was out as it was just getting dark and did not feel save to go under and use the footpath, I walk to and from work via this roundabout and at this time of year I myself am scared using this footpath after 6.30pm alone, she has always been tought to use crossings or footpaths provided but I for one can say when I was 14 I broke rules and went against good advise, this is what teenagers do! My heart sank the momant I recieved a call from her friend to say she had been hit by car and when I arrived at the scene one of my first thoughts was "what was she doing crossing there?" and one of the first things she said to me was "im sorry mum" knowing she had broke the rules of crossing the road. My daughter and her friends were actually out trying to track down two boys that had robbed my 13 year old son of his phone just 3 hours before! her mind was on one thing and that was her brother..! she has kept in contact with the driver and has apolagized to him for stepping out without thinking first! he has also shown concern and kept in contact for updates of her recovery. if they can have an understanding and deal with this terrible ACCIDENT then I am sure everyone else can, I am just glad that she is ok and apart from the mental scars she should go on to make a full recovery but it is a lesson she has learnt the hard way. we have been in touch with the echo paper and hopefully the facts will be printed in tomorrows paper. many thanks for your concerns and wishes. x

I'm glad your daughter is on the mend. I don't agree with you accepting this as 'just an accident' though. Everyone in Southend knows pedestrians cross in the road to avoid the underpass on that roundabout. It is a very well lit junction. The driver should have been able to see pedestrians and slow their speed accordingly. I'm not saying the driver deliberately hit your daughter, but they should have been paying more attention and been prepared for pedestrians crossing.

I disagree - Its a dual carriageway road, add the slip road and it's four lanes of traffic driving at 40mph. Remember 'stop, look listen' - it's the pedrestrian who should be aware of traffic in the road. Drivers sticking to the speed limit can't expect someone to just walk out.

Having said that, this young girl's mind was probably elsewhere. So rather than apportion blame (which I haven't done whether she was a cyclist or a pedrestrian), it's an accident.

I'm glad she's on the mend, and that she's home. I'll agree, underpasses are not ideal, especially at night, and I'd rather cross the road then use them myself.

Are you serious? Drivers in built up areas should always be expecting pedestrians to walk out.

Highway Code rule #146 states:


Adapt your driving to the appropriate type and condition of road you are on. In particular:

do not treat speed limits as a target. It is often not appropriate or safe to drive at the maximum speed limit

take the road and traffic conditions into account. Be prepared for unexpected or difficult situations, for example, the road being blocked beyond a blind bend. Be prepared to adjust your speed as a precaution

where there are junctions, be prepared for road users emerging

in side roads and country lanes look out for unmarked junctions where nobody has priority

be prepared to stop at traffic control systems, road works, pedestrian crossings or traffic lights as necessary


TRY TO ANTICIPATE WHAT PEDESTRIANS AND CYCLISTS MIGHT DO. IF PEDESTRIANS, PARTICULARLY CHILDREN, ARE LOOKING THE OTHER WAY, THEY MAY STEP OUT INTO THE ROAD WITHOUT SEEING YOU

aduksquack wrote:

PJR-121 wrote:

aduksquack wrote:

motherofthree wrote: I am the mother of the girl involved in the accident, she is 14 not 16. I would like to thank those who have shown concern without judgment. My daughter is home from hospital today and recovering well though in alot of pain. she was not on a bike but was on foot when she made the wrong decicion to cross the road inline with the hand car wash rather then use the underpass provided, she is a 14 year old girl who was out as it was just getting dark and did not feel save to go under and use the footpath, I walk to and from work via this roundabout and at this time of year I myself am scared using this footpath after 6.30pm alone, she has always been tought to use crossings or footpaths provided but I for one can say when I was 14 I broke rules and went against good advise, this is what teenagers do! My heart sank the momant I recieved a call from her friend to say she had been hit by car and when I arrived at the scene one of my first thoughts was "what was she doing crossing there?" and one of the first things she said to me was "im sorry mum" knowing she had broke the rules of crossing the road. My daughter and her friends were actually out trying to track down two boys that had robbed my 13 year old son of his phone just 3 hours before! her mind was on one thing and that was her brother..! she has kept in contact with the driver and has apolagized to him for stepping out without thinking first! he has also shown concern and kept in contact for updates of her recovery. if they can have an understanding and deal with this terrible ACCIDENT then I am sure everyone else can, I am just glad that she is ok and apart from the mental scars she should go on to make a full recovery but it is a lesson she has learnt the hard way. we have been in touch with the echo paper and hopefully the facts will be printed in tomorrows paper. many thanks for your concerns and wishes. x

I'm glad your daughter is on the mend. I don't agree with you accepting this as 'just an accident' though. Everyone in Southend knows pedestrians cross in the road to avoid the underpass on that roundabout. It is a very well lit junction. The driver should have been able to see pedestrians and slow their speed accordingly. I'm not saying the driver deliberately hit your daughter, but they should have been paying more attention and been prepared for pedestrians crossing.

I disagree - Its a dual carriageway road, add the slip road and it's four lanes of traffic driving at 40mph. Remember 'stop, look listen' - it's the pedrestrian who should be aware of traffic in the road. Drivers sticking to the speed limit can't expect someone to just walk out. Having said that, this young girl's mind was probably elsewhere. So rather than apportion blame (which I haven't done whether she was a cyclist or a pedrestrian), it's an accident. I'm glad she's on the mend, and that she's home. I'll agree, underpasses are not ideal, especially at night, and I'd rather cross the road then use them myself.

Are you serious? Drivers in built up areas should always be expecting pedestrians to walk out. Highway Code rule #146 states: Adapt your driving to the appropriate type and condition of road you are on. In particular: do not treat speed limits as a target. It is often not appropriate or safe to drive at the maximum speed limit take the road and traffic conditions into account. Be prepared for unexpected or difficult situations, for example, the road being blocked beyond a blind bend. Be prepared to adjust your speed as a precaution where there are junctions, be prepared for road users emerging in side roads and country lanes look out for unmarked junctions where nobody has priority be prepared to stop at traffic control systems, road works, pedestrian crossings or traffic lights as necessary TRY TO ANTICIPATE WHAT PEDESTRIANS AND CYCLISTS MIGHT DO. IF PEDESTRIANS, PARTICULARLY CHILDREN, ARE LOOKING THE OTHER WAY, THEY MAY STEP OUT INTO THE ROAD WITHOUT SEEING YOU

I agree totally - you adapt your driving based on the road you are driving on.

In this instance, there is a railing running down the middle of the road, which should prevent people from crossing over.

It's a main road running through the town, but it's a dual carriageway with a 40mph limit.

Do you expect people to cross the A127 where it's a dual carriageway?

If you're going to quote highway code, then look at rules 1-35, particually rule 9, which states

"Pedestrian Safety Barriers. Where there are barriers, cross the road only at the gaps provided for pedestrians. Do not climb over the barriers or walk between them and the road."

There's no gaps in that central reservation, so if we're going by the highway code, the driver shouldn't expect pedrestrians to cross anyway.

PJR-121 wrote:

aduksquack wrote:

PJR-121 wrote:

aduksquack wrote:

motherofthree wrote: I am the mother of the girl involved in the accident, she is 14 not 16. I would like to thank those who have shown concern without judgment. My daughter is home from hospital today and recovering well though in alot of pain. she was not on a bike but was on foot when she made the wrong decicion to cross the road inline with the hand car wash rather then use the underpass provided, she is a 14 year old girl who was out as it was just getting dark and did not feel save to go under and use the footpath, I walk to and from work via this roundabout and at this time of year I myself am scared using this footpath after 6.30pm alone, she has always been tought to use crossings or footpaths provided but I for one can say when I was 14 I broke rules and went against good advise, this is what teenagers do! My heart sank the momant I recieved a call from her friend to say she had been hit by car and when I arrived at the scene one of my first thoughts was "what was she doing crossing there?" and one of the first things she said to me was "im sorry mum" knowing she had broke the rules of crossing the road. My daughter and her friends were actually out trying to track down two boys that had robbed my 13 year old son of his phone just 3 hours before! her mind was on one thing and that was her brother..! she has kept in contact with the driver and has apolagized to him for stepping out without thinking first! he has also shown concern and kept in contact for updates of her recovery. if they can have an understanding and deal with this terrible ACCIDENT then I am sure everyone else can, I am just glad that she is ok and apart from the mental scars she should go on to make a full recovery but it is a lesson she has learnt the hard way. we have been in touch with the echo paper and hopefully the facts will be printed in tomorrows paper. many thanks for your concerns and wishes. x

I'm glad your daughter is on the mend. I don't agree with you accepting this as 'just an accident' though. Everyone in Southend knows pedestrians cross in the road to avoid the underpass on that roundabout. It is a very well lit junction. The driver should have been able to see pedestrians and slow their speed accordingly. I'm not saying the driver deliberately hit your daughter, but they should have been paying more attention and been prepared for pedestrians crossing.

I disagree - Its a dual carriageway road, add the slip road and it's four lanes of traffic driving at 40mph. Remember 'stop, look listen' - it's the pedrestrian who should be aware of traffic in the road. Drivers sticking to the speed limit can't expect someone to just walk out. Having said that, this young girl's mind was probably elsewhere. So rather than apportion blame (which I haven't done whether she was a cyclist or a pedrestrian), it's an accident. I'm glad she's on the mend, and that she's home. I'll agree, underpasses are not ideal, especially at night, and I'd rather cross the road then use them myself.

Are you serious? Drivers in built up areas should always be expecting pedestrians to walk out. Highway Code rule #146 states: Adapt your driving to the appropriate type and condition of road you are on. In particular: do not treat speed limits as a target. It is often not appropriate or safe to drive at the maximum speed limit take the road and traffic conditions into account. Be prepared for unexpected or difficult situations, for example, the road being blocked beyond a blind bend. Be prepared to adjust your speed as a precaution where there are junctions, be prepared for road users emerging in side roads and country lanes look out for unmarked junctions where nobody has priority be prepared to stop at traffic control systems, road works, pedestrian crossings or traffic lights as necessary TRY TO ANTICIPATE WHAT PEDESTRIANS AND CYCLISTS MIGHT DO. IF PEDESTRIANS, PARTICULARLY CHILDREN, ARE LOOKING THE OTHER WAY, THEY MAY STEP OUT INTO THE ROAD WITHOUT SEEING YOU

I agree totally - you adapt your driving based on the road you are driving on.

In this instance, there is a railing running down the middle of the road, which should prevent people from crossing over.

It's a main road running through the town, but it's a dual carriageway with a 40mph limit.

Do you expect people to cross the A127 where it's a dual carriageway?

If you're going to quote highway code, then look at rules 1-35, particually rule 9, which states

"Pedestrian Safety Barriers. Where there are barriers, cross the road only at the gaps provided for pedestrians. Do not climb over the barriers or walk between them and the road."

There's no gaps in that central reservation, so if we're going by the highway code, the driver shouldn't expect pedrestrians to cross anyway.

In this instance she was hit on the sliproad by the carwash business. There are no barriers between pavement and road there. From what her mother has said she and her friends were making for the roundabout to get across to the Southchurch Road side.

She was not knocked down on Queensway.

motherofthree wrote:
I am the mother of the girl involved in the accident, she is 14 not 16. I would like to thank those who have shown concern without judgment. My daughter is home from hospital today and recovering well though in alot of pain. she was not on a bike but was on foot when she made the wrong decicion to cross the road inline with the hand car wash rather then use the underpass provided, she is a 14 year old girl who was out as it was just getting dark and did not feel save to go under and use the footpath, I walk to and from work via this roundabout and at this time of year I myself am scared using this footpath after 6.30pm alone, she has always been tought to use crossings or footpaths provided but I for one can say when I was 14 I broke rules and went against good advise, this is what teenagers do! My heart sank the momant I recieved a call from her friend to say she had been hit by car and when I arrived at the scene one of my first thoughts was "what was she doing crossing there?" and one of the first things she said to me was "im sorry mum" knowing she had broke the rules of crossing the road. My daughter and her friends were actually out trying to track down two boys that had robbed my 13 year old son of his phone just 3 hours before! her mind was on one thing and that was her brother..! she has kept in contact with the driver and has apolagized to him for stepping out without thinking first! he has also shown concern and kept in contact for updates of her recovery. if they can have an understanding and deal with this terrible ACCIDENT then I am sure everyone else can, I am just glad that she is ok and apart from the mental scars she should go on to make a full recovery but it is a lesson she has learnt the hard way. we have been in touch with the echo paper and hopefully the facts will be printed in tomorrows paper. many thanks for your concerns and wishes. x

Glad to hear your daughter is home and well. We can all make errors when crossing a road, That she is home is the most important thing. I wish her well and a speedy recovery

aduksquack wrote:

PJR-121 wrote:

aduksquack wrote:

PJR-121 wrote:

aduksquack wrote:

motherofthree wrote: I am the mother of the girl involved in the accident, she is 14 not 16. I would like to thank those who have shown concern without judgment. My daughter is home from hospital today and recovering well though in alot of pain. she was not on a bike but was on foot when she made the wrong decicion to cross the road inline with the hand car wash rather then use the underpass provided, she is a 14 year old girl who was out as it was just getting dark and did not feel save to go under and use the footpath, I walk to and from work via this roundabout and at this time of year I myself am scared using this footpath after 6.30pm alone, she has always been tought to use crossings or footpaths provided but I for one can say when I was 14 I broke rules and went against good advise, this is what teenagers do! My heart sank the momant I recieved a call from her friend to say she had been hit by car and when I arrived at the scene one of my first thoughts was "what was she doing crossing there?" and one of the first things she said to me was "im sorry mum" knowing she had broke the rules of crossing the road. My daughter and her friends were actually out trying to track down two boys that had robbed my 13 year old son of his phone just 3 hours before! her mind was on one thing and that was her brother..! she has kept in contact with the driver and has apolagized to him for stepping out without thinking first! he has also shown concern and kept in contact for updates of her recovery. if they can have an understanding and deal with this terrible ACCIDENT then I am sure everyone else can, I am just glad that she is ok and apart from the mental scars she should go on to make a full recovery but it is a lesson she has learnt the hard way. we have been in touch with the echo paper and hopefully the facts will be printed in tomorrows paper. many thanks for your concerns and wishes. x

I'm glad your daughter is on the mend. I don't agree with you accepting this as 'just an accident' though. Everyone in Southend knows pedestrians cross in the road to avoid the underpass on that roundabout. It is a very well lit junction. The driver should have been able to see pedestrians and slow their speed accordingly. I'm not saying the driver deliberately hit your daughter, but they should have been paying more attention and been prepared for pedestrians crossing.

I disagree - Its a dual carriageway road, add the slip road and it's four lanes of traffic driving at 40mph. Remember 'stop, look listen' - it's the pedrestrian who should be aware of traffic in the road. Drivers sticking to the speed limit can't expect someone to just walk out. Having said that, this young girl's mind was probably elsewhere. So rather than apportion blame (which I haven't done whether she was a cyclist or a pedrestrian), it's an accident. I'm glad she's on the mend, and that she's home. I'll agree, underpasses are not ideal, especially at night, and I'd rather cross the road then use them myself.

Are you serious? Drivers in built up areas should always be expecting pedestrians to walk out. Highway Code rule #146 states: Adapt your driving to the appropriate type and condition of road you are on. In particular: do not treat speed limits as a target. It is often not appropriate or safe to drive at the maximum speed limit take the road and traffic conditions into account. Be prepared for unexpected or difficult situations, for example, the road being blocked beyond a blind bend. Be prepared to adjust your speed as a precaution where there are junctions, be prepared for road users emerging in side roads and country lanes look out for unmarked junctions where nobody has priority be prepared to stop at traffic control systems, road works, pedestrian crossings or traffic lights as necessary TRY TO ANTICIPATE WHAT PEDESTRIANS AND CYCLISTS MIGHT DO. IF PEDESTRIANS, PARTICULARLY CHILDREN, ARE LOOKING THE OTHER WAY, THEY MAY STEP OUT INTO THE ROAD WITHOUT SEEING YOU

I agree totally - you adapt your driving based on the road you are driving on. In this instance, there is a railing running down the middle of the road, which should prevent people from crossing over. It's a main road running through the town, but it's a dual carriageway with a 40mph limit. Do you expect people to cross the A127 where it's a dual carriageway? If you're going to quote highway code, then look at rules 1-35, particually rule 9, which states "Pedestrian Safety Barriers. Where there are barriers, cross the road only at the gaps provided for pedestrians. Do not climb over the barriers or walk between them and the road." There's no gaps in that central reservation, so if we're going by the highway code, the driver shouldn't expect pedrestrians to cross anyway.

In this instance she was hit on the sliproad by the carwash business. There are no barriers between pavement and road there. From what her mother has said she and her friends were making for the roundabout to get across to the Southchurch Road side. She was not knocked down on Queensway.

In which case there is no pavement to cross over to

That's the whole point! The underpass is too dangerous at night. There is no other way for people afraid to use it to get across to Southchurch or Sutton Road.

aduksquack wrote:
That's the whole point! The underpass is too dangerous at night. There is no other way for people afraid to use it to get across to Southchurch or Sutton Road.

There's a crossing at the bottom of Queensway. Maybe there should be one further up - before the slip roads. Or maybe they could move the current crossing.

I'll agree those underpasses are not safe at night any more...

these quotes with-in quotes with-in quotes are driving me potty.

DogsMessInLeigh wrote:
these quotes with-in quotes with-in quotes are driving me potty.

You can't have seen the ones that are done over and over, until the origninal quote is just one long verticle line of letters...!

PJR-121 wrote:

aduksquack wrote:

PJR-121 wrote:

aduksquack wrote:

PJR-121 wrote:

aduksquack wrote:

motherofthree wrote: I am the mother of the girl involved in the accident, she is 14 not 16. I would like to thank those who have shown concern without judgment. My daughter is home from hospital today and recovering well though in alot of pain. she was not on a bike but was on foot when she made the wrong decicion to cross the road inline with the hand car wash rather then use the underpass provided, she is a 14 year old girl who was out as it was just getting dark and did not feel save to go under and use the footpath, I walk to and from work via this roundabout and at this time of year I myself am scared using this footpath after 6.30pm alone, she has always been tought to use crossings or footpaths provided but I for one can say when I was 14 I broke rules and went against good advise, this is what teenagers do! My heart sank the momant I recieved a call from her friend to say she had been hit by car and when I arrived at the scene one of my first thoughts was "what was she doing crossing there?" and one of the first things she said to me was "im sorry mum" knowing she had broke the rules of crossing the road. My daughter and her friends were actually out trying to track down two boys that had robbed my 13 year old son of his phone just 3 hours before! her mind was on one thing and that was her brother..! she has kept in contact with the driver and has apolagized to him for stepping out without thinking first! he has also shown concern and kept in contact for updates of her recovery. if they can have an understanding and deal with this terrible ACCIDENT then I am sure everyone else can, I am just glad that she is ok and apart from the mental scars she should go on to make a full recovery but it is a lesson she has learnt the hard way. we have been in touch with the echo paper and hopefully the facts will be printed in tomorrows paper. many thanks for your concerns and wishes. x

I'm glad your daughter is on the mend. I don't agree with you accepting this as 'just an accident' though. Everyone in Southend knows pedestrians cross in the road to avoid the underpass on that roundabout. It is a very well lit junction. The driver should have been able to see pedestrians and slow their speed accordingly. I'm not saying the driver deliberately hit your daughter, but they should have been paying more attention and been prepared for pedestrians crossing.

I disagree - Its a dual carriageway road, add the slip road and it's four lanes of traffic driving at 40mph. Remember 'stop, look listen' - it's the pedrestrian who should be aware of traffic in the road. Drivers sticking to the speed limit can't expect someone to just walk out. Having said that, this young girl's mind was probably elsewhere. So rather than apportion blame (which I haven't done whether she was a cyclist or a pedrestrian), it's an accident. I'm glad she's on the mend, and that she's home. I'll agree, underpasses are not ideal, especially at night, and I'd rather cross the road then use them myself.

Are you serious? Drivers in built up areas should always be expecting pedestrians to walk out. Highway Code rule #146 states: Adapt your driving to the appropriate type and condition of road you are on. In particular: do not treat speed limits as a target. It is often not appropriate or safe to drive at the maximum speed limit take the road and traffic conditions into account. Be prepared for unexpected or difficult situations, for example, the road being blocked beyond a blind bend. Be prepared to adjust your speed as a precaution where there are junctions, be prepared for road users emerging in side roads and country lanes look out for unmarked junctions where nobody has priority be prepared to stop at traffic control systems, road works, pedestrian crossings or traffic lights as necessary TRY TO ANTICIPATE WHAT PEDESTRIANS AND CYCLISTS MIGHT DO. IF PEDESTRIANS, PARTICULARLY CHILDREN, ARE LOOKING THE OTHER WAY, THEY MAY STEP OUT INTO THE ROAD WITHOUT SEEING YOU

I agree totally - you adapt your driving based on the road you are driving on. In this instance, there is a railing running down the middle of the road, which should prevent people from crossing over. It's a main road running through the town, but it's a dual carriageway with a 40mph limit. Do you expect people to cross the A127 where it's a dual carriageway? If you're going to quote highway code, then look at rules 1-35, particually rule 9, which states "Pedestrian Safety Barriers. Where there are barriers, cross the road only at the gaps provided for pedestrians. Do not climb over the barriers or walk between them and the road." There's no gaps in that central reservation, so if we're going by the highway code, the driver shouldn't expect pedrestrians to cross anyway.

In this instance she was hit on the sliproad by the carwash business. There are no barriers between pavement and road there. From what her mother has said she and her friends were making for the roundabout to get across to the Southchurch Road side. She was not knocked down on Queensway.

In which case there is no pavement to cross over to

Well I usually speed. If I was the black Astra then I would never of hit her, because I would of been further up the road. Speeding saves lives!!

Basildon.lad.21 wrote:

PJR-121 wrote:

aduksquack wrote:

PJR-121 wrote:

aduksquack wrote:

PJR-121 wrote:

aduksquack wrote:

motherofthree wrote: I am the mother of the girl involved in the accident, she is 14 not 16. I would like to thank those who have shown concern without judgment. My daughter is home from hospital today and recovering well though in alot of pain. she was not on a bike but was on foot when she made the wrong decicion to cross the road inline with the hand car wash rather then use the underpass provided, she is a 14 year old girl who was out as it was just getting dark and did not feel save to go under and use the footpath, I walk to and from work via this roundabout and at this time of year I myself am scared using this footpath after 6.30pm alone, she has always been tought to use crossings or footpaths provided but I for one can say when I was 14 I broke rules and went against good advise, this is what teenagers do! My heart sank the momant I recieved a call from her friend to say she had been hit by car and when I arrived at the scene one of my first thoughts was "what was she doing crossing there?" and one of the first things she said to me was "im sorry mum" knowing she had broke the rules of crossing the road. My daughter and her friends were actually out trying to track down two boys that had robbed my 13 year old son of his phone just 3 hours before! her mind was on one thing and that was her brother..! she has kept in contact with the driver and has apolagized to him for stepping out without thinking first! he has also shown concern and kept in contact for updates of her recovery. if they can have an understanding and deal with this terrible ACCIDENT then I am sure everyone else can, I am just glad that she is ok and apart from the mental scars she should go on to make a full recovery but it is a lesson she has learnt the hard way. we have been in touch with the echo paper and hopefully the facts will be printed in tomorrows paper. many thanks for your concerns and wishes. x

I'm glad your daughter is on the mend. I don't agree with you accepting this as 'just an accident' though. Everyone in Southend knows pedestrians cross in the road to avoid the underpass on that roundabout. It is a very well lit junction. The driver should have been able to see pedestrians and slow their speed accordingly. I'm not saying the driver deliberately hit your daughter, but they should have been paying more attention and been prepared for pedestrians crossing.

I disagree - Its a dual carriageway road, add the slip road and it's four lanes of traffic driving at 40mph. Remember 'stop, look listen' - it's the pedrestrian who should be aware of traffic in the road. Drivers sticking to the speed limit can't expect someone to just walk out. Having said that, this young girl's mind was probably elsewhere. So rather than apportion blame (which I haven't done whether she was a cyclist or a pedrestrian), it's an accident. I'm glad she's on the mend, and that she's home. I'll agree, underpasses are not ideal, especially at night, and I'd rather cross the road then use them myself.

Are you serious? Drivers in built up areas should always be expecting pedestrians to walk out. Highway Code rule #146 states: Adapt your driving to the appropriate type and condition of road you are on. In particular: do not treat speed limits as a target. It is often not appropriate or safe to drive at the maximum speed limit take the road and traffic conditions into account. Be prepared for unexpected or difficult situations, for example, the road being blocked beyond a blind bend. Be prepared to adjust your speed as a precaution where there are junctions, be prepared for road users emerging in side roads and country lanes look out for unmarked junctions where nobody has priority be prepared to stop at traffic control systems, road works, pedestrian crossings or traffic lights as necessary TRY TO ANTICIPATE WHAT PEDESTRIANS AND CYCLISTS MIGHT DO. IF PEDESTRIANS, PARTICULARLY CHILDREN, ARE LOOKING THE OTHER WAY, THEY MAY STEP OUT INTO THE ROAD WITHOUT SEEING YOU

I agree totally - you adapt your driving based on the road you are driving on. In this instance, there is a railing running down the middle of the road, which should prevent people from crossing over. It's a main road running through the town, but it's a dual carriageway with a 40mph limit. Do you expect people to cross the A127 where it's a dual carriageway? If you're going to quote highway code, then look at rules 1-35, particually rule 9, which states "Pedestrian Safety Barriers. Where there are barriers, cross the road only at the gaps provided for pedestrians. Do not climb over the barriers or walk between them and the road." There's no gaps in that central reservation, so if we're going by the highway code, the driver shouldn't expect pedrestrians to cross anyway.

In this instance she was hit on the sliproad by the carwash business. There are no barriers between pavement and road there. From what her mother has said she and her friends were making for the roundabout to get across to the Southchurch Road side. She was not knocked down on Queensway.

In which case there is no pavement to cross over to

Well I usually speed. If I was the black Astra then I would never of hit her, because I would of been further up the road. Speeding saves lives!!

Idiot.