THE moment a pensioner was hit by an e-scooter rider trying to escape police has been captured on video.
Myra Wood, 79, suffered a fractured eye socket and was unable to eat solid food for six weeks after she was hit by Paul Satchell on December 1, 2020.
Satchell, of no fixed address, was sentenced to 16 months in prison at Lewes Crown Court on September 9 for causing serious injury by dangerous driving.
Two officers had told him to stop riding the e-scooter in Watermill Lane, Bexhill, but Satchell ignored them and rode off.
The 58-year-old rode at speed while looking behind him at the officers.
He slammed into Mrs Wood who was knocked over and suffered “extensive injuries” which left her in hospital for two days.
Satchell was also thrown off his scooter but was uninjured.
The two police officers arrested Satchell and gave first aid to Mrs Wood.
He was also disqualified from driving for a further three years and eight months.
E-scooters are illegal to ride on pavements and roads.
Myra Wood, who was 77 at the time, agreed for the footage to be shared online to warn people about the dangers e-scooters can post to others.
Mrs Wood said: “I can say that this collision left me with physical and mental scars that have fundamentally affected my quality of life.
“I know I am a shadow of my former self.”
Mrs Wood previously enjoyed an active life with regular walks, visits to shops and church every Sunday in Bexhill and Sidley.
She has been left with extreme anxiety and felt “terrified” to cross roads after the incident.
Speaking after the case, collision unit investigator Chris McGuckin said: “Satchell at first pleaded not guilty to the charge and the matter was sent to the crown court for trial.
“But he failed to attend court on several occasions. Warrants were issued for his arrest. When he was arrested and appeared in court, the evidence was so strong that he had no choice but to change his plea to guilty.
“We are pleased that we could at last get justice for Mrs Wood with the 16-month prison sentence.
“The case shows that all road users have an obligation to pay attention and be aware of others on the road to prevent causing serious harm.
“It also demonstrates the harm that can be caused by e-scooters, which are still illegal to use in public, outside of a trial area.”
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