Woman Instructs Serious Injury Lawyers To Help Her Access Rehabilitation

A fitness professional seriously hurt in a crash alongside her mum has revealed the “devastating” impact her injuries have had on her life.

Tara Oakley and her mum, Charlotte, were injured when a car mounted the pavement while the pair were walking in Newthorpe, near Nottingham, on Boxing Day 2021.

Tara was flung on to the windscreen before rolling down a grass verge and hitting a tree.

She and her mum were taken to hospital. Tara suffered a broken right arm and shoulder, a fractured left knee as well as a double break to her left leg. She also suffered ligament damage to her knees. 

Tara, who was visiting her mum for Christmas, was bed bound for 12 days and has had to undergo a number of operations.

Serious injury lawyers help Tara access specialist rehabilitation 

The 42-year-old of Walthamstow, East London, has instructed expert serious injury lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to help her access the specialist support, therapies and rehabilitation she requires to overcome her injuries. 

The legal experts secured an interim payment from the driver’s insurance company to help fund complex reconstruction surgery on Tara’s left knee which she recently underwent and which doctors believe could take her a year to recover from.

Tara and legal team issue road safety warning 

Tara, a self-employed dancer, fitness professional and massage therapist, has now spoken for the first time about the effect her injuries have had. She has also joined her legal team at Irwin Mitchell in warning of the dangers of careless driving. 

It comes after the driver who ploughed into the pair was convicted at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court of driving without due care and attention.   

Expert Opinion

“What happened to Tara and her mum vividly highlights the terrible consequences innocent road users can be left to face because of the actions of others.

“Tara’s injuries have had a profound impact on her life. Understandably the last 14 months and coming to terms with the physical and physiological effects of what happened has been incredibly difficult for her.

“While Tara has made progress in her recovery through access to rehabilitation, she still faces many challenges in order to overcome her injuries and be able to properly return to work.

“We’re determined to support Tara throughout her recovery. However, in the meantime we hope her case acts as a warning for all road users to take care at all times.” Sarah Griggs

Serious injury: Tara Oakley's story

Tara and Charlotte, 73, were walking on the pavement along B600 Moorgreen, near to the junction of Engine Lane, when a car mounted the kerb at around 2.30pm on 26 December 2021. Tara’s mum suffered serious injuries including a broken back, pelvis and head injury. 

Tara said: “I remember we were walking when I suddenly saw a car lose control and come towards us. The next thing I had been hit and was flung onto the windscreen. There then felt like this constant feeling of rolling before I hit a tree. 

“I was dizzy but conscious. After a few seconds I tried to move but realised my left leg didn’t look right and the pain hit me.

“When the doctors in hospital told me the extent of my injuries it really dawned on me how serious things were. 

“It wasn’t a case of being discharged from hospital and everything being fine. Once back home I found it difficult to complete any personal tasks. Things like washing and dressing, which people take for granted, was a real struggle. My work as a self-employed fitness instructor, dancer and masseuse relies on me being fit and healthy. I’ve had to turn down work because of my injuries. I’ve lost clients because I haven’t been able to run classes for them. 

“Work is my life and it’s all I’ve ever known so I’m worried about whether I’ll fully recover and the long-term impact this will have on me. I’ve recently had further surgery on my knee meaning I am unable to work. 

“Despite everything I try and remain as positive as possible and I’m fully focussed on my recovery. I know I still face some hard times but I’m determined to make the best recovery I can and get more of my old life back. 

“However, I just hope that by speaking out, people realise the hurt and pain they can cause others and why it’s so important to take care while driving.”

Driver fined for causing collision

The driver pleaded not guilty to driving without due care and attention but was found guilty following a trial at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court. They had six points put on their licence and were fined £350 with £620 costs.

Find out more about our expertise in supporting people following a road collision at our dedicated serious injury section. Alternatively to speak to an expert contact us or call 0370 1500 100.