Irwin Mitchell Working To Help Woman Access Vital Rehabilitation

A mum-of-four has spoken for the first time of her determination to overcome serious injuries caused when a vehicle crashed into her car in a supermarket car park.

Emma Brooker was loading shopping into the boot when a vehicle crashed into her Ford Focus, forcing her car to hit her. The 38-year-old jumped into her boot in a bid to avoid further injury and being dragged under her vehicle. However, seconds later another vehicle crashed into her legs which were still hanging out of her boot.

Emma suffered multiple left foot fractures and a ‘degloving’ injury during the incident which happened at the Poplars branch of Sainsbury’s in Stevenage at around 11am on 22 September, 2017.

Following the crash Emma, of Stevenage, instructed expert serious injury lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate the collision. The first driver’s insurance company has admitted liability for the incident. Irwin Mitchell is now working with the insurance company to secure funds towards Emma’s rehabilitation.

Expert Opinion

Emma suffered a number of very serious injuries and required an operation to insert metal plates and pins as well as plastic surgery after the skin was torn from her foot.

“The extent of Emma’s injuries has meant that she has been unable to look after her children and participate in family life. Whilst Emma’s physical scars are improving there is still some uncertainty as to how full a recovery Emma will make from her injuries. She also has to live with the psychological impact of her terrifying ordeal.

“Emma’s case vividly illustrates the terrible injuries that drivers can cause through a lack of concentration. It is imperative motorists pay attention to their surroundings at all times.

“We are now working with Emma to help her gain access to the rehabilitation services she requires, so she can overcome her devastating injuries the best she can.” Natasha Fairs - Senior Associate Solicitor

Emma, is married to Karl, 38, and they have four children, Josh, 20, Megan, 11, and eight-year-old twins Adam and Paige.

She has been unable to return to her part-time job as a supermarket cashier following the collision.

Emma said: “I was loading the shopping into the boot when suddenly a car accelerated and collided with the front of my car. I immediately felt a burning sensation in my leg as the rear of my car hit me.

“My first reaction was to jump in the boot. I recall a woman screaming “there are legs hanging out” but after that I don’t remember much else, but I have been told that another car driving around the car park drove into my legs.

“Prior to the accident I did almost everything around the house but since I came home from hospital I have been unable to do much of anything without assistance from Karl and the rest of my family and friends.

“My doctors have said my recovery will be slow. There is also a risk that there will be complications due to my skin damage and further reconstructive surgery may be required.

“I am trying to remain positive and concentrated on my recovery. I just want to be able to do every day things that most people take for granted, such as taking my children on the school run again.

“I would also like to thank the people who came to my aid following the accident and for helping to keep me calm whilst the ambulance arrived. Without them I don’t know what I would have done.”

The driver pleaded guilty and was convicted of Driving Without Due Care and Attention in April 2018.

Read more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in handling serious injury cases.