A WOMAN is in a potentially serious condition after the car she was driving was involved in a crash with another vehicle that had failed to stop for police.

The 22-year-old woman sustained a serious head injury following the incident at Hurn on Friday afternoon.

Following the collision the NPAS helicopter and dog unit were called to help search for a man who had fled the scene.

At around 5.26pm, a BMW car travelling along Parley Lane failed to stop for police before officers lost sight of the vehicle.

Bournemouth Echo:

Picture by Thomas Jenkins

A short time later it was in collision with a red Volkswagen Fox on the roundabout at the junction of Avon Causeway.

The driver of the Volkswagen - the 22-year-old woman - was taken to Poole Hospital for treatment.

Two Bournemouth men, aged 22 and 24, were arrested at the scene on suspicion of driving offences.

A third man was reported to have left the scene.

A search of the area was carried out, involving the NPAS helicopter and the police dog unit, and a 24-year-old man from Bournemouth was arrested nearby on suspicion of driving offences.

All three are assisting officers with their enquiries.

The road was closed while emergency services dealt with the incident.

Police Sergeant Craig Tatton, of the traffic unit, said: “I am appealing to anyone who was travelling along Parley Lane at the relevant time and witnessed the collision to please come forward.

“I am also keen to hear from any motorists who witnessed the manner of driving of any of the vehicles involved, or captured the collision or vehicles on dashcam, to please contact Dorset Police.

"Finally, we are also looking to speak to a man who was seen in the area at the time who may have information relating to the collision. He is described as a white, approximately six feet tall, of heavy build and was wearing a blue top and cream shorts."

Anyone with information can contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55200068912.

Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call freephone 0800 555 111.