Stranger parks car to shield elderly woman on scooter from highway traffic
A motorist parked behind an elderly woman on a highway to shield her from traffic until emergency services arrived.
An elderly woman ended up on Gungahlin Drive's on-ramp, where cars pass at 100 kilometres per hour, after leaving North Canberra Hospital on the evening of Tuesday, September 7. Jeff Chandler noticed her mobility scooter on the shoulder of Belconnen Way.
Chandler turned his car around and parked directly behind her to shield her from traffic. The woman was confused and said she was heading home.
Chandler spoke with her and called emergency services. Police officers attended at about 8pm and stayed with her until paramedics arrived.
Chandler praised the officers for their response. The woman had checked herself out of the hospital earlier that day but hospital staff had not confirmed details of her discharge.
Why it mattersA bystander's quick action prevented what could have been a serious injury or death on a busy highway where cars travel well above the posted speed limit.
AustraliaThe incident highlights the danger faced by elderly people using mobility devices near major roads in Canberra and the lifesaving role community members can play.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 28 min ago
