Mum-of-four paralysed after being run over by car with no driver

A mum-of-four has been left paralysed after a freak accident where she was hit by a car with no driver.

Deralee Bates was with friends in Paihia, New Zealand, when the group's designated driver put the keys in the ignition and turned the car's engine on, the New Zealand Herald reported.

The driver didn't get in the vehicle and was unaware the car was in gear when it lurched forward and ran Ms Bates over.

A fundraiser was set up by Ms Bates' sister, who explained she was now paralysed due to the "freak accident".

"Deralee was airlifted to Middlemore Hospital for surgery and is currently in ICU," Sam Naera wrote on a GiveALittle crowdfunding page.

Ms Naera told The New Zealand Herald her sister was in "good spirits" about her recovery and confirmed Ms Bates is now in the spinal unit.

While she is paralysed, there is a chance Ms Bates will be able to walk again. It's expected she will remain in the hospital for six to eight weeks.

• Photo of Bondi Beach 'crawling' with police sparks heated debate

• 'Scary' sexist comment at press conference sparks outrage: 'UNACCEPTABLE'

• Heartbreaking new details about four young women killed in Queensland crash

Ms Bates, a security guard, has two children of her own and two stepchildren.

The money raised through the fundraiser will go towards living and travel expenses and help Ms Bates' family pay for food and cover emergency funds.

More than $5000 has been donated so far and you can donate to the fundraiser here.

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter and download the Yahoo News app from the App Store or Google Play.