A family are seeking compensation after they were run down on the footpath by an elderly motorist.

Violet Thompson, 81, had parked outside a Royal Mail depot in York. As she turned back onto the road, she mounted the pavement and hit three-year-old Rosie Velez-Colby and her mother Jennifer, as well as knocking a pushchair over.

She rejoined the carriageway and continued until Christian Velez-Corby stopped her by smashing the window.

The family only had minor injuries – except for Rosie who had internal injuries from which she has now recovered – but have decided to pursue compensation when Ms Thompson was banned from driving for life due to her reduced faculties.

Judge Stephen Ashurst said: "Her ability to drive a vehicle was seriously impaired. The family was completely taken by surprise by this sudden and dramatic event."

Ms Thompson said her foot had slipped from the clutch and she could not find the accelerator. The court accepted that she had not meant to drive away, but panicked. The case continues.

Pedestrians may be the group most at risk from being seriously injured if they are involved in a road traffic collision, which is why they must be given right of way by motorists. Anyone involved in an accident such as this may be eligible for compensation and should seek the advice of a solicitor.