A HEADTEACHER today welcomed an investigation into an accident black spot on a Suffolk road where she endured life-changing injuries.
A HEADTEACHER today welcomed an investigation into an accident black spot on a Suffolk road where she endured life-changing injuries.
Elaine Purves, who works at Ipswich High School, was badly injured after a drink-driver smashed into her car on the B1080 in December 2006.
Filip Wiewiorski was jailed last year after a court heard he was racing on the wrong side of the road on a bend between Holbrook and Freston when he crashed head-on with Mrs Purves.
The court recorder said the road was winding and that Wiewiorski was travelling “far too fast” for the road conditions when he collided head-on with Mrs Purves.
Mrs Purves, who now is back at work, will have to take medication for the rest of her life and has previously spoken of how the accident has compromised her easy-going lifestyle.
Suffolk County Council is now investigating the site, along with 12 other notorious locations across the county, including where teenager Sophie Underwood was killed in a collision in Foxhall Road, Ipswich.
Signs notifying drivers that the area is currently under investigation have been erected while officials probe the possibilities for making improvements.
Mrs Purves said: “I think it is good that they are taking steps to improve that stretch of road and welcome any traffic calming or road improvements.
“To make the road safer, I think some widening would be helpful, coupled with a no-overtaking restriction and, if possible, a 20mph restriction.
“I would also love to see some off-road cycle paths on the Shotley Peninsula - the countryside is beautiful, but the roads are not safe enough for children to cycle on. Central Ipswich to Ipswich High School would be a good start!”
Anneka Hardy, spokeswoman for Suffolk County Council, said the process of investigating the sites and making alterations could take anywhere between six and 18 months.
She added: “It is hoped their presence will prevent further accidents during this time. We will monitor the effectiveness of these signs and report our findings back to the board.”
Do you think the investigations are a good idea? Write to Your Letters, The Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or send us an e-mail to eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk
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