Terry Williams estimates he has traveled over two million miles throughout his career as a private hire driver.

He has navigated various weather conditions across the UK and Ireland, but this marks the first instance where he faced the challenge of a large tree crashing onto his vehicle.

“As we approached the bend, I saw the tree literally start to fall right in front of us. My instinct told me that slamming on the brakes would result in a collision with the major sections of the tree, so in that split second, I chose to accelerate instead,” he recounted.

“I was going about 45mph when we collided with the tree,” Mr. Williams noted, characterizing the weather as “wet, but calm.”

“The windshield shattered so badly that I couldn’t see the tree or its branches. All I saw was a bright flash of white light.”

Just moments earlier, Terry had picked up his regular passenger Emma Hill, 41, along with her mother Susan Jamson, 75, from their home in Hazlemere, Buckinghamshire, to drive them to work at the Chickenshed youth theater in Enfield.

As they rounded a sudden curve on the A404 at Holmer Green, Terry quickly understood the imminent danger. Recognizing that avoiding the tree completely was impossible, he opted to speed up instead.

“I thought if I could accelerate quickly enough, the tree would land behind us.

“The impact sent me swerving to the other side of the road. I was skidding, but I knew that hard braking or sharp steering could cause the vehicle to roll over,” he explained.

Terry believes his extensive driving experience played a crucial role in safeguarding himself and his passengers.

“Given the mileage I’ve covered, I’ve encountered many situations where others slammed on their brakes or pulled out in front of me unexpectedly. My heightened awareness of what’s ahead and behind keeps me vigilant at all times.”

Susan, who manages press and public relations for Chickenshed, commended Terry’s driving abilities and quick reflexes.

“I’ve known Terry for around five years,” she shared. “He’s always been a calm and reassuring driver.”

This is particularly vital since her daughter, Emma, has Down syndrome and is at an increased risk of atlantoaxial instability (AAI), a condition characterized by instability in the top two neck vertebrae. Any driver transporting Emma must consider her condition to prevent injury.

The family has formed a trusting relationship with Oakwood Cars in north London, especially with Terry, who has been with the company for a decade.

“I’ve discussed Emma’s condition with Terry, and he understands it completely,” Susan mentioned.

“I always request Terry because I know Emma will be safe with him.”

The main trunk of the tree remains upright on the A404, now exhibiting a significant scar where part of it broke and fell onto the vehicle.

Thomas Broom, the deputy leader of Buckinghamshire Council and cabinet member for transport, informed the BBC: “After the incident was reported, our council crews responded promptly to clear the area and ensure the road’s safety.

“Buckinghamshire Highways conducts routine tree assessments every three years and supplements these with regular safety inspections to identify any potential hazards to the roads, including third-party trees that may pose a risk.

“If anyone has immediate safety concerns, we urge them to report them through Fix My Street.”

Reflecting on the accident, Terry believes his past as a racing driver may have contributed to his calm response.

“When I was younger, I participated in motor racing, so I’ve had my share of high-speed crashes.”

He added, “I wasn’t really shaken at all. I had a very sturdy car.”

That vehicle, a high-end Skoda Superb diesel, has now been deemed a total loss.

“I’m just grateful to be alive. And fortunately, Susan and Emma are safe as well,” Terry stated.

Susan shares Terry’s sentiment.

“I’m astounded that we’re alive. If it weren’t for Terry, we might not be here at all.”