What Did the British Mum Say After Being Run Over in Ibiza?

Lauren Holmes, a 27-year-old British mother, is recovering after a serious accident in Ibiza where she was struck by a taxi while on holiday with her friend. Despite suffering traumatic brain injuries and multiple fractures, she is now conscious but has no memory of the incident. The ongoing investigation and her condition raise concerns about her recovery and the implications of the accident.

Last updated: 13 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

Lauren Holmes suffered critical injuries after being hit by a taxi in Ibiza.
She is currently in intensive care, with a prognosis of several weeks in the hospital.
The incident is under investigation by the Spanish Civil Guard.
Lauren's family is facing logistical and financial challenges regarding her treatment.
Her friend, Ebony Cordingley, is also recovering but has serious injuries.

The Incident: What Happened?

On Tuesday, 10 October 2023, Lauren Holmes and her friend Ebony Cordingley were involved in a tragic accident on the El-600 road between Ibiza and San Antonio. Reports indicate that the two women were crossing the road when a 24-year-old driver of a Toyota Corolla struck them. The pair had just enjoyed a meal out and were returning to their hotel.

Eyewitness accounts suggest that neither Lauren nor Ebony had been drinking, contradicting common assumptions about tourist behaviour in Ibiza. Instead, they were simply enjoying a holiday, playing on swings and walking through the vibrant island. Tragically, this incident highlights the dangers that can exist even in seemingly safe environments.

Lauren's Condition and Treatment

Following the collision, Lauren was rushed to the Can Misses state hospital in Ibiza, where she was admitted to intensive care. Her injuries include:

Two broken legs
A broken arm
A fractured spine
Broken ribs
A punctured lung

As of now, Lauren is conscious but has no recollection of the incident. Her last memory was of going out for food with her friend. This amnesia is not unusual following such traumatic brain injuries, which can impact memory and cognitive function.

Her prognosis indicates a hospital stay of six to eight weeks, contingent on her treatment and recovery progress. However, her family has been informed that transferring her back to the UK could cost approximately £33,000, a daunting figure for any family to bear.

Family's Response and Ongoing Support

Lauren's mother, Bernice Ramsden, and friend Ethan Hawks have flown to Ibiza to be by her side. Bernice described the harrowing moment she received the news of her daughter’s accident. She recalled her initial panic and the frantic attempts to gather information about Lauren's condition.

“It was just supposed to be a little break,” Bernice said, reflecting on the family's shock. “I found out what had happened when her friend phoned me and just said, ‘there’s been an accident, she’s been run over.’”

Meanwhile, Ebony Cordingley, who is also recovering in a private hospital, has sustained severe injuries, including a bleed on the brain and multiple fractures. Thankfully, she has been stabilised and has moved out of intensive care. Her sister, Shannon, has been actively involved in ensuring both women receive the necessary care and support.

The Investigation: What We Know So Far

The Spanish Civil Guard is conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. As of now, it remains unclear whether the taxi driver has been arrested or if he possesses adequate insurance. Such details are crucial not only for legal accountability but also for addressing the financial implications for both families involved.

These investigations can be complex and may take time to conclude, especially when assessing liability in traffic accidents involving pedestrians. Lauren's family is understandably anxious for clarity regarding the driver’s status and the potential legal consequences.

Impact on Families

The emotional toll on both families is profound. With Lauren being a mother of two, her absence is keenly felt at home. Her son, who is autistic, may not fully grasp the situation, while her daughter is reportedly heartbroken and yearning for her mother's return.

The logistical challenges of caring for a loved one abroad, coupled with the financial burden of medical expenses, add to the stress. Families often face difficult decisions regarding treatment options, especially when overseas medical care is involved. This situation presents an opportunity for reflection on how families can prepare for unforeseen circumstances while travelling.

What Happens Next?

As Lauren continues her recovery, her family is left to navigate the complexities of international healthcare and the ongoing investigation. They are likely to face a challenging journey ahead as they work to understand the full implications of the accident.

Support networks, both familial and community-based, could play a vital role in assisting the families during this difficult time. Fundraising efforts may also emerge as a means to help cover the substantial medical costs associated with Lauren’s treatment.

This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the potential dangers while travelling, particularly in busy tourist areas. Awareness of road safety, pedestrian rights, and the importance of insurance coverage while abroad cannot be overstated.

FAQs

What injuries did Lauren Holmes sustain in the accident?

Lauren Holmes suffered multiple severe injuries, including two broken legs, a broken arm, a fractured spine, broken ribs, and a punctured lung.

What is the current condition of Lauren and her friend Ebony?

Lauren is conscious but has no memory of the accident, while Ebony is stable and has been moved out of intensive care, despite suffering serious injuries, including a bleed on the brain.

What are the potential costs associated with Lauren's treatment?

Transferring Lauren back to the UK for treatment could cost approximately £33,000, which poses a significant financial challenge for her family.

Is there an ongoing investigation into the accident?

Yes, the Spanish Civil Guard is investigating the crash, but details regarding the taxi driver and the circumstances are still unclear.

How are Lauren's family coping with the situation?

Lauren's family, including her mother and friends, have travelled to Ibiza to support her, facing emotional and financial challenges as they navigate her recovery and the associated costs.

The unfortunate incident involving Lauren and Ebony serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of life and the importance of safety while travelling. How can we better prepare for emergencies while on holiday? #RoadSafety #TravelAwareness #SupportFamilies