Jacqueline Davies, 75, died after being run over by her own car when she got out to move a cat to safety as the handbrake failed on a slope on 6 July. Her family said she had a "strength that inspired those around her" and are "desperate for answers".
The inquest at Gwent Coroners' Court heard that Davies, from Hollybush in Cwmbran, Torfaen, climbed out of the driving seat of her red Ford Fiesta on a hill while trying to save the cat. The car then rolled forward and fatally struck her.
Davies was able to dial 999 after the incident, but died later in hospital. She was taken to University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff with serious injuries and died the following day.
Coroner Rose Farmer said her provisional cause of death was a major haemorrhage, injury to the inferior vena cava - the largest vein in the body - and trauma.
What did her family say?
Her family said they were devastated by her death and described her as a strong, independent and spirited mother.
We are heartbroken beyond words at the sudden loss of our beloved mum.
She was a strong, independent, spirited mum who was never scared to speak her mind, and that was one of the many things we loved about her.
She was honest, determined and full of character, with a strength that inspired those around her.
Our family is devastated and life will never be the same without her.
We are trying to come to terms with what has happened but we are also desperate for answers.
What are police asking?
Gwent Police wants anyone travelling in the area of Bryn Millwr, Hollybush, on 6 July between 10:00 BST and 10:30 who may have witnessed the crash to contact officers.
The inquest into Davies' death will resume on 13 April 2027.
