Young SA woman survives horrific taxi accident

A 21-year-old South Australian woman has “pulled through” major surgery after falling from a car and being hit by a taxi.

A young South Australian woman has “pulled through” major surgery after being hit by a taxi in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Hunter Lavender, 21, had opened the rear passenger door of a Mercedes ute as it was making a right-hand turn and fell out onto the road, police said.

A car behind the ute managed to avoid her, but a taxi merging lanes ran Ms Lavender over.

Ms Lavender’s mother, Hayley Batson, told her Facebook followers that her daughter had suffered “significant injuries” and required surgery for internal bleeding.

“She is doing pretty well, given what she’s been through,” Ms Batson posted.

“She fell from a moving car and was hit and run over by an oncoming car leaving the city at 4am.”

Ms Lavender has undergone surgery for internal bleeding. Picture: Facebook

“I’ve not left her side,” she said. “She’s doing so well, all things considered.”

Police confirmed the circumstances after discussions with witnesses and viewing CCTV footage.

Police say the driver of the Mercedes ute fled the scene before they arrived.

Ms Batson said it was likely her daughter would return to surgery for operations on her arm and pelvis.

“She’s had a rough night trying to stay on top of the pain, but we are managing it as best as we can.”

“We are blessed she’s alive.”

Police investigations are continuing and SAPOL is appealing with the driver of the Mercedes to come forward.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or go online to www.crimestopperssa.com.au.

Originally published as Young SA woman survives horrific taxi accident