As it tried to cross the road a lorry, which was being driven towards Kettering, smashed into the car.

The impact caused major damage to the car while the lorry left the road and ploughed through a hedge into a field.

The lorry was being driven by a 45-year-old man from Southport.

An elderly woman was in the Mondeo.

The air ambulance was called to the scene but was not used.

A motorist, who was driving two cars behind the lorry witnessed the crash.

The man, who asked to remain anonymous, said: “All of a sudden I saw the car come out of the junction.

“The lorry smashed straight into it and ended up going through the hedge.

“The lorry driver didn’t stand a chance.

“The car just suddenly appeared out of nowhere, it was a terrible thing to see happen.”

The road was closed to traffic while the elderly couple were cut out of their car and while the lorry driver was rescued.

Three fire engines, three ambulances and three police cars attended the scene.

A spokesman for Northamptonshire Police said: “The lorry driver sustained serious back injuries, while the occupants of the Mondeo suffered minor cuts and bruises. All three were taken to Kettering General Hospital for treatment.”

The A43 was closed between Sywell and Mawsley for collision investigation officers from Northamptonshire Police to attend the scene.

Anyone with any information or who witnessed the crash should call 0800 174615.