Manchester AA patrol hero recognised after saving the life of a woman on the motorway

An AA patrolman from Manchester has been recognised for his heroic actions which helped to save the life of a badly-injured woman in an incident on the motorway.

Paul McDermott, from Gorton, pulled over after spotting a car on a bridge over the M6 and what looked like a person on the ground nearby.

He found a woman with serious injuries and immediately called for help. A few days later he found out she had survived and was being cared for.

Paul, who works in an AA recovery patrol, has now received a citation from the organisation.

What happened?

Paul was heading north on the M6 Toll road in May this year when he spotted a car parked on a bridge with its interior light switched on. The car stood out against the dark sky, drawing Paul’s attention.

As he drove under the bridge, Paul looked down towards the hard shoulder where he thought he had seen a person’s legs on the ground. He immediately pulled over and switched on his AA truck’s beacons.

He walked forward carrying a torch and his fears were confirmed.

He turned to head back to his truck to raise the alarm but at that point a voice pleaded with him not to leave the spot.

As he shone his torch back, he could see a badly injured woman in extreme pain and confusion.

Paul was again asked not to leave and assured her he was only going as far as his truck to summon help using the emergency system.

Help arrived within a few minutes and the lady was taken to hospital for treatment to her injuries.

A few days later Paul was assured that the woman had survived and was being cared for.

Paul has also received care for the traumatic experience from the AA’s wellbeing team and continues to rebuild his confidence at work with the support of his colleagues.

What has been said about the incident?

Paul said that in 30 years of driving “this was the worst experience I’ve had”.

He has been commended for how he handled the sensitive and shocking situation by his employer.

Edmund King, AA president, said: “The dynamic nature of an AA patrol’s role means that they never really know what each day will bring.

“Paul’s experience has shown us yet again, that our five-star AA patrols put others before themselves, often under extreme circumstances such as these.

“Paul will receive all the support he needs as he continues to come to terms with his experience.”

What is an AA citation?

Paul received his citation from the AA at the organisation’s annual awards evening.

A citation is awarded to members of AA staff who, while on duty, carry out acts above and beyond the normal service requirements, demanding a high level of personal initiative or demonstrating outstanding courtesy and care.

These actions sometimes involve individuals performing courageous acts by placing themselves in harm’s way for the sake of others, and at other times they are awarded in recognition of an act of immense kindness or selflessness.

A distressing and difficult experience

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this story the Samaritans are here to help at any time and can be contacted for free on 116 123.