Lawyers Secure Interim Payment Allowing Mum To Access Specialist Rehabilitation

A pedestrian hit twice by a car has revealed how the serious injuries she suffered have impacted on her independence.

Sandra Ponter was crossing Tudor Gardens in Upminster when a car drove into her. As the 72-year-old shouted at the driver asking why he had collided with her, the driver drove into her again. The mum-of-four was thrown across the road by the impact.

She was taken to hospital with a broken right leg and knee. Sandra, of Upminster, underwent surgery to have metal plate and pins inserted in her leg as well as a bone graft.

Following the incident she instructed expert serious injury lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate and help her access the specialist rehabilitation and therapies she requires.

No criminal case was brought against the driver. However, his insurers admitted liability for the collision in a separate civil case brought by Irwin Mitchell, with lawyers securing an interim payment for Sandra, who faces having to undergo a knee replacement in the future.

Sandra is now using Road Safety Week to warn of the dangers of people not taking care on the roads. She has also revealed how she is continuing to keep up her rehabilitation despite the challenges of Covid-19 restrictions. 

Expert Opinion

“The road traffic collision has had a tremendous impact on Sandra’s life.

“Sandra has made progress in her recovery but she continues to be affected by her serious physical and psychological injuries. While nothing can make up for what has happened, we are pleased to have secured the interim payment, allowing Sandra to access the specialist therapies and support she requires even during the coronavirus pandemic.

“We will continue to support Sandra to help her live as independently as she can. However, it’s vital that all road users pay attention at all times to help reduce the number of people seriously injured in collisions.” Katie Lowe - Associate Solicitor

Sandra had been shopping in Waitrose and was walking to a cash machine to withdraw money when the incident happened at around 6.30pm on 10 October last year.

Passers-by came to Sandra’s aid. She spent 15 days in hospital. She was discharged with a leg brace and a zimmer frame and was reliant on her children and carers for help.

More than a year on she continues to experience shooting pains in her right leg and swelling.

She said: “I was crossing the road and all of a sudden the driver drove into my leg. I was shocked and shouted at him asking we he had done that and then he drove into me again.

“The next thing I was lying on the opposite side of the road. I was in absolute agony and couldn’t stand up.

“The last year has been incredibly difficult. My right leg is no longer straight as my foot and knee have turned inwards and I walk with a slight limp.

“Before the crash I used to enjoy my independence. I loved spending time with my friends and family but now I’m pretty much housebound and can’t get out unless I’ve someone to support me.

“Because of coronavirus and shielding this also meant I couldn’t attend physio appointments which upset me. But with some of my payment I bought a tablet and have engaged in virtual sessions.

“I still worry about what the future may hold. I just hope that drivers realise the hurt they can cause by not paying attention and take care on the roads at all time.”

Road Safety Week, organised by the charity Brake, takes places from 16-22 November.

Find out more about our expertise in helping people following road collisions at our specialist serious injury section. Alternatively to speak to an expert contact us or call 0370 1500 100.