A shocking incident involving a 2015 Range Rover Evoque has left a couple grappling with the repercussions of what was deemed preventable, making headlines as they seek justice for injuries sustained during the ordeal. Carl Midgley, 60, took his Range Rover to the dealership for rear brake work, only to find himself and his wife embroiled in a perilous situation when the SUV unexpectedly rolled down their driveway, putting both their lives at risk.
After collecting the vehicle from the garage, Carl's wife, Joanne, 63, parked the car, but it failed to engage the handbrake due to it being left in maintenance mode—an oversight by the dealership, Vertu Land Rover, located near Leeds. Instead of safely coming to rest, the SUV began moving away, with Joanne, unable to escape, struggling to free herself from the driver's door. Footage from the couple's CCTV system caught the dramatic moments as Carl rushed from their house to intervene, narrowly avoiding being crushed under his two-ton vehicle.
“I couldn’t have ever imagined this happening, but it did and it was very dangerous,” Carl expressed, reflecting on the harrowing encounter. The vehicle finally came to stop after crashing against their flower bed, sparing the couple from severe injury yet leaving emotional and physical repercussions. The couple, who are also fostering parents, have voiced their concerns about future incidents, worried about the safety of their grandchildren and other family members.
Upon inspection by Land Rover UK's technical team, it was determined there was nothing wrong with the vehicle itself—aside from the maintenance mode issue. Yet this finding left the Midgleys bewildered and frustrated, believing their complaints about the incident warranted compensation. Carl, who has had to undergo physiotherapy for back issues exacerbated by the incident, stated, “They’ve now basically told us to go away,” expressing disappointment at the lack of regard from the garage.
The garage had initially handled the vehicle damage without charge, but the couple feels inadequately addressed concerning their health and safety concerns post-incident. Carl pointedly remarked, “That car could have killed a toddler,” emphasizing the potential danger posed by the oversight. The couple continues to demand accountability and is determined to raise awareness about the dangers of vehicle malfunction post-repair.
Speakers from the dealership responded to the Midgleys’ concerns, stating, “This matter was resolved in 2023, with the customer accepting extensive goodwill gestures. We are pleased the customer is still using our services.” This statement has done little to quell the couple's mounting anxieties about their safety and the integrity of future repairs.
The Midgleys' experience serves as a jarring reminder of the potential hazards posed by seemingly minor oversights during vehicle maintenance and repairs. With the industry standards for service and safety constantly under scrutiny, this incident highlights the need for heightened diligence from automotive service providers.
Events like this not only endanger lives but also shake the trust customers must have when relying on professionals for their vehicle maintenance. Carl and Joanne Midgley are motivated by their pursuit of justice, not only for themselves but for any future customers who might face similar situations due to negligence.
While the Midgleys fight for proper restitution and compensation for their injuries, they hope to educate others on the need for vigilance when dealing with automotive service providers. Their shocking story has shed light on the darker side of vehicle maintenance and the importance of thorough inspections, particularly when dealing with sophisticated cars like the Range Rover.
Unexpected developments following such incidents can lead to serious consequences, not just for the individuals involved but also for the reputation of the businesses responsible. This case is indicative of broader challenges faced by automotive dealers and repair shops, as they navigate the responsibilities attached to ensuring customer safety behind the wheel.