New Zealand man accidently run over by wife twice

A "cushioning" gravel driveway probably saved Opoutama contractor Terry Telford from more serious injury after he was accidentally run over twice by his wife. As it was, 69-year-old Mr Telford was airlifted to Hawke's Bay Hospital with head, chest and back injuries. He is now recovering in a general ward where his condition was listed as "stable".

The accident happened about 8.30 yesterday morning when his wife Sandy was leaving the couple's Waikokupu Rd property in her small 4WD vehicle. Mr Telford had earlier left the house and was walking on the long driveway when it is understood Mrs Telford ran into him while reversing.

A Lowe Corporation rescue service spokesperson said it appeared Mrs Telford was not immediately aware of what had happened, and drove forward. Unfortunately she struck her husband, who had been knocked to the ground, a second time.

Although in shock, she quickly managed to call for help. Mrs Telford comforted her husband, who remained conscious and able to talk with her, until police and St John Ambulance arrived.