LUTZ, Fla. — A parent is looking for changes on a Hillsborough County road after her son was hit by a car.
When walking along Debuel Road in Lutz, Samantha Collins says she always thinks of her children.
Especially since a driver recently hit her son while he rode his bike to school.
“I’m just glad it wasn’t more tragic. And that he was OK, thankfully,” Collins said. “We got through it, day by day, continue to support him and try to get the situation resolved."
The situation she’s referring to is safety near Maniscalco K-8 School.
Like many schools in the Bay Area, it now sees more kids walking to school along roads with increasing traffic.
“It’s very hectic," Collins said. "Even as a driver, it’s nerve-wracking.”
Her son was hit at the intersection of Debuel Road and Willow Pond Drive. Collins said it's an intersection where many drivers make a U-turn, despite a sign saying they are prohibited.
Collins said the driver was cited in that crash, yet the U-turns still happen.
In addition, Collins said Hillsborough County approved a crosswalk on Debuel at Hanna Road, but it was never installed.
“I really think if we just had some proper painted lines and crosswalk signs, that could’ve been helpful,” Collins said.
Hillsborough County officials confirmed there are plans for two new crosswalks on Debuel Road, with new sidewalks as well. However, there is currently no timeline for completion.
Collins said she hopes the county can move quickly to help slow drivers down.
“It’s every parent’s worst nightmare," she said. "I worry it’s going to be too late by the time they put it in."
