An Isle of Wight mechanic has spoken of his experience after a van engine and gearbox, weighing over half a tonne, fell on him at his workshop in Merstone. Charlie Joyner, 62, sustained severe injuries to his legs and lost toes in the incident.
Mr Joyner was working alone on a van when the accident occurred. Despite chocking the wheels after the handbrake cable snapped, the van, supported by jacks, unexpectedly fell off the ramp as he removed the final bolt from the engine and gearbox. The resulting movement caused the supports to fail, and Mr Joyner was struck on the head before the heavy engine and gearbox landed on his arms, compressing his legs and feet. Despite his injuries, he managed to push the weight off himself and call for assistance.
The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Ambulance (HIOWAA) responded to the call, and Mr Joyner was airlifted to Southampton General Hospital. He underwent surgery for his head injury, and his severed toes were reattached. A metal rod was inserted into his left leg to stabilise it. Mr Joyner believes the prompt response of the air ambulance service was crucial in saving his leg from amputation.
Following the incident, Mr Joyner spent three and a half months in a wheelchair. Due to the physical and emotional impact of his injuries, he anticipates having to change his profession. However, over a year later, he is now able to walk and drive again. Reflecting on the incident, Mr Joyner acknowledged that vehicles falling off ramps can occur in the motor trade and is something he never expected to happen to him.
Tom Nickisson-Richards, a specialist paramedic and aftercare lead at HIOWAA, noted the severity of Mr Joyner’s injuries and emphasised that the rapid treatment and transfer to a major trauma centre were vital for his outcome. Mr Joyner received aftercare support from HIOWAA following the incident.
More information about the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Ambulance can be found here.
Source: Isle of Wight Country Press