“You Really Don’t Expect It”  –  82-Year-Old Pedestrian’s Life Altered After Being Struck by Cyclist in Horrifying Collision

Tragedy struck in the quiet neighborhood of Main Road Stoke when 82-year-old Ida Davies encountered an unexpected incident during her evening stroll. The great-grandmother is known to conduct daily walks, but the fateful day made her the victim of a severe accident. On September 12, at 5:30 PM, her serene routine was shattered when the elderly lady was struck from behind during a sudden cycling mishap. 

The impact of the disastrous crash immediately sent her tumbling to the footpath, leaving the woman with life-changing injuries. The consequences of the collision were severe, with Davies suffering a shattered wrist and the other one getting sprained. Her nose was also broken in two places, causing severe injuries and discomfort to the old resident. Davies’ daughter, Karen Baker, struck back at the reckless cyclist, describing the horrifying incident while sharing its unfortunate consequences. 

Careless cycling causes a harrowing outcome 

The sudden fall had rendered the lady unconscious, inflicting a severe concussion that now requires additional aftercare. Davies has to wear sunglasses in bright lights and keep her curtains drawn after the massive accident changed her life. Adding to her list of injuries, Ida is also grappling with a fractured upper jaw that makes it impossible for her to chew or bite. Sharing her upsetting situation, the grandmother expressed, “I’m so used to being active, it’s so frustrating.”

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The post-crash scenario depicted Davies’ teeth and gums still remaining numb and swollen. With the prospect of normal sensation taking an uncertain amount of time to return, the bedridden woman felt heartbroken. While Ida needed surgery to remove bone fragments from her wrist, a metal plate was also eventually inserted to mend the fractured bone. Consequently, the old woman is currently finding herself unable to perform everyday tasks independently. 

Painful aftermath causes hurdles for grandma 

Davies’ shocking condition has made her dependent on others for daily chores such as dressing, showering, or cooking. The previously independent octogenarian found herself stuck in a grinding halt, as she is slated to spend the next six weeks in respite care. Emotionally, the accident has also taken a toll on Ida’s mental well-being. Karen revealed the significant displeasure of her mother, stating, “She’s very, very angry and upset that it’s going to be a long, long slow process.”

While the cyclist did stay at the scene and provide organized assistance, questions arose regarding his choice to use the footpath. As the sidewalks are primarily reserved for pedestrians, his shocking cycling venture seemed reckless and damaging. Baker emphasized the need for heightened pedestrian safety awareness after the accident, narrating her candid suggestions. She advised the Nelson City Council to consider placing warning signs around the retirement village to alert commuters about the elderly residents on foot.

The council’s group manager of infrastructure, Alec Louverdis, expressed sadness over the incident, followed by pointing out the probable solutions. As investigations into the incident continue, it remains undecided whether changes in safety measures will be implemented. Davies’ sorrowful story has paved the way for the importance of pedestrian safety, especially in areas with vulnerable residents.

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