A man told this week how he rushed to help an OAP who was left fighting for her life – after being struck by an HGV while crossing Wishaw Main Street.
Eyewitnesses said the 66-year-old accident victim was trapped under the vehicle following the horrifying incident last Wednesday about 4.15pm.
The pensioner was taken by ambulance to Wishaw General Hospital. The woman is believed to have suffered serious leg injuries.
Onlookers described the aftermath scenes on the Main Street as like “something out of a horror movie.”
Luke Monaghan, 27, of Carluke, was shopping in the Main Street at the time of the accident.
After hearing screams following the crash, he rushed to help the victim.
Luke said: “What I witnessed was horrific and heart-breaking. I climbed underneath the lorry to see what was going on and I just saw the wee lady lying there.
“Her legs were crushed underneath the front wheel. She was in so much pain. It was a horrendous, gruesome sight.
“I held her hand and tried to keep her calm until the ambulance arrived.
“She kept saying ‘Maureen’. I’m not sure if she was telling me that was her name or whether she was calling out for a family member. She was really brave and I hope she pulls through.”
Sharon Neill, who works in the Brighthouse just along from where the accident took place, was one of the first on the scene.
She continued: “I heard a thump and loud screams and I ran outside to see what had happened. I never expected anything as serious.
“I can’t get the image of the lady out of my head. What I witnessed was like something out of a horror movie.
“I can’t sleep for thinking about how she is doing. I wish I knew her name so I could send her some flowers.
“I phoned the ambulance and brought the driver into our shop.
“He was in total shock and could hardly speak. I felt really bad for him too. He was a broken man. It really was a tragic accident and I really hope they are both okay.”
Townsfolk took to our Facebook page with messages of concern and support for the victim.
B Jane Stuart posted: “I hope the lady makes a speedy recovery.”
Catherine Riley Cowan Morgan added: “My heart goes out to the woman. Must have been awful. Hope she’s okay. She’s in my prayers x.”
The accident comes after residents and traders said the prolonged Streetscape project made crossing the Main Street hazardous and an accident waiting to happen there.
Allan McGavin said: “Why were there no railings fitted to stop people simply crossing the road through the traffic?”
“I hope the driver of the lorry gets as much support, folks.
I passed the scene and saw the driver was in pure shock at what had happened to the poor lady.
“ Must be extremely tough for the guy.”
A council spokesperson said: “It would be inappropriate for us to comment while Police Scotland investigations are underway.”
Sergeant David Stenhouse has appealed for witnesses to the incident to come forward.
Anyone with information on the accident contact 101.
