Taxi driver deserves a medal for rescuing man from burning car

No one knows how they will react in an emergency, but a life-saving taxi driver deserves an award for bravery for rescuing an unconscious man from a burning car.

When taxi driver Abdul Javeed came across the scene of the horrific crash, he didn’t think twice about getting out to help – as his shocked fare looked on from the cab.

Javeed was taking his passenger to Liverpool when he discovered the wreckage in Coppull, Chorley, at 3am on March 2.

Front line

While they are not an emergency service, taxi drivers are on the front line and often save the day, whether it is children who have been separated from their parents, a woman going into labour, or helping someone who is stranded and vulnerable.

In this case, Javeed told the Lancashire Post that when he stopped in Spendmore Lane, the emergency services had not yet arrived and bystanders were filming on their phones, instead of helping. As he ran towards the car, it burst into flames.

He told the Lancashire Post: “I went over and saw a person unconscious in the car.

“I went round and managed to open the door, managed to take the seat belt off, and got the man out of the car. It was good the seat belt wasn’t jammed.”

It was only after rescuing the man from the burning car that the seriousness of the situation began to sink in.

Lifesaver

Javeed said: “It was terrifying. I have never encountered anything like this. After the arrival of the police and firefighters at the scene, I offered my support to the police by aiding them in evacuating residents from their homes in the event of a fire.”

The man was checked over by paramedics and was fortunate to only have suffered minor injuries.

Having just saved someone’s life, modest Javeed got back into his taxi and continued the journey to Liverpool. But his actions haven’t gone unnoticed.

Shaz Malik, founder of the Chorley Taxi Association, heaped praise of the caring cabbie who has first-aid training and a sense of responsibility to the community he serves.

Mr Malik said: “He’s saved the man’s life. Javeed’s story serves as a reminder of the vital role that CTA taxi drivers play in our communities, not only as transportation providers, but also as first responders in times of crisis.

“His actions exemplify the values of compassion, quick thinking, and selflessness that are essential in emergency situations.

“Saving anyone’s life is one of the biggest things you will do in your life, and every life matters.

“Our TaxiWatch program has extended out to saving lives in Chorley, serving as a shining example of the positive impact that individuals can have when they are willing to go above and beyond to help others in need.

“His bravery and quick actions undoubtedly saved a life and inspired others to do the same in times of crisis.”

Javeed deserves an award for his bravery. This incident could have ended in tragedy if it wasn’t for his actions and quick thinking.

And what is even more remarkable is that having gone through a life-changing experience such as this, he jumped back into his cab to take his fare to their destination.