Teenager on the road to recovery after crash
December 18, 2024in News
Five months ago, Dylan Smith was driving along the same road he takes every day when he was involved in a car crash that left him in intensive care.
The 18-year-old was heading home from work on 9 July when his car veered off the road, went down an embankment and rolled.
The car was written-off and the significant damage left Dylan trapped with injuries including spinal fractures, a broken collarbone, a fractured jaw, broken pelvis and collapsed lung.
Dylan in hospital.
Luckily, it wasn’t long before bystanders came across the crash and pulled over to assist, calling emergency services and checking on the Kilmore local.
After being cut out of the vehicle by SES and CFA crews, Dylan was transported to Royal Melbourne Hospital by Ambulance Victoria (AV) paramedics.
He remained in hospital for a week, spending four days in the intensive care unit (ICU) before being moved to the trauma ward.
Dylan said while he can’t remember the crash, he is thankful for everyone who helped save his life.
“I wouldn’t have survived if all the bystanders hadn’t come across it and stopped to help,” he said.
“I also want the paramedics to know how grateful I am for the support they gave me and the quick response they provided. I likely wouldn’t be here today without them.”
Last week, Dylan and his family reunited with the paramedics who responded to his case to express their thanks in person.
(L – R) Paramedic Siobhan Rowe, Dylan Smith, and Paramedics Matt Arcieri and Brittany Apted
AV Advanced Life Support (ALS) Paramedic Matt Arcieri said he knew Dylan’s injuries were serious from the moment he saw the incident.
“We were dispatched Code 1 and as soon as we realised the high mechanism of the accident we called for backup,” he said.
“It was a good team effort with the other emergency services to remove Dylan from the car, get him on the stretcher in the pelvis binder and go straight to hospital.
“In our role, we’re always thinking ahead about what injuries might be present that we can’t see and how to account for them, such as internal bleeding or pelvic injuries, which was the case with Dylan.
“It’s great to see him again and doing so well.”
Since the accident, Dylan has had to undergo surgery for the deep laceration to his face and to help mend his jaw. He also completes regular physiotherapy.
Dylan is determined to continue his recovery and within the last two months has returned to work and driving.
“I’m doing a lot better now and that’s thanks to everyone who helped on that day,” he said.
“It was a shock to hear what had happened, but I have great family support who have been there for me every single day.”