Scots Nurse Sustains Severe Injuries in Collision with Uninsured Driver Prior to Wedding
Scottish nurse Clare Kehoe found herself seriously injured just three weeks before her much-anticipated wedding when an uninsured driver collided with her vehicle while attempting to evade the police. The incident occurred on April 1, 2024, when Nasir Al Soaimi, a 19-year-old individual from Kuwait who had never passed a driving test, crashed into Clare’s Volvo. The impact left her with a fractured pelvis, necessitating the use of strong painkillers and crutches during her wedding festivities. Despite the ordeal, Clare managed to get through her wedding day but had to forego her honeymoon in Paris. She continues to require ongoing physiotherapy to address her sustained injuries.
Al Soaimi, who pleaded guilty to charges including causing serious injury by dangerous driving, driving without a license, and lacking insurance, received a 28-month jail sentence alongside a two-year driving ban post-release. He may also face deportation as a consequence of his actions. The court heard that Al Soaimi ignored police signals to stop his vehicle, leading to the collision with Clare’s car on a residential road where he was travelling at 58mph in a 30mph zone. Clare, originally from Scotland but residing in the North East of England, had to be rescued from her vehicle by emergency services and was subsequently diagnosed with fractures to her pelvis and spine.
In a statement following the incident, Clare expressed her disappointment at missing out on work and being unable to visit her family due to her injuries. The sentimental value of her car, a gift from a deceased relative, added to her emotional distress. Despite managing to go through with her wedding, the injuries impacted her ability to fully enjoy the day and participate in traditional Scottish ceilidh dancing. The cancellation of her honeymoon plans to Paris due to mobility issues further compounded her disappointment.
The judge highlighted Al Soaimi’s lack of driving credentials and insurance, emphasising the severity of the consequences of his reckless actions. Clare’s lawyer attested to Al Soaimi’s remorse and previously clean record, citing his traumatic injuries from the collision. However, the court acknowledged the gravity of the situation and the need for accountability, particularly considering the potential deportation implications given the length of Al Soaimi’s incarceration.
In conclusion, this harrowing incident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of reckless driving behaviour and the importance of adhering to road safety regulations. Clare’s resilience in the face of adversity and her long road to recovery underscore the importance of road safety awareness and responsible driving practices to prevent similar tragedies in the future.