ERROL — A Connecticut woman sustained serious injuries in a snowmobile accident after mistaking the throttle for the brake on Saturday afternoon.
Sandra Ouellette, 58, of Broad Brook, was riding on the Corridor 19 Trail around 2 p.m. when the crash occurred.
According to authorities, Ouellette attempted to slow down for a turn but accidentally accelerated, causing her to lose control and veer off the trail.
The snowmobile went over an embankment and into a ditch, ejecting Ouellette.
Her fellow riders, who were traveling with her, quickly provided aid and contacted emergency services.
The Errol Fire Department, Errol Rescue, and Conservation Officers responded to the incident.
Rescue personnel used a tracked utility terrain vehicle (UTV) to reach Ouellette and transport her to an ambulance.
She was taken to Androscoggin Valley Hospital in Berlin for treatment.
An investigation into the accident suggested that Ouellette’s lack of experience was a contributing factor.
This outing marked her first snowmobile ride of the season.
She was properly equipped with a helmet and eye protection at the time of the accident.
In light of the incident, Conservation Officers are emphasizing the importance of wearing protective gear and practicing safe operating procedures while snowmobiling.
