Downed tree injurs ATV rider
By Kathy McCarty
Staff Writer
BRIDGEWATER — A Mars Hill man was injured Thursday, July 21, as he rode his ATV on the Bridgewater rail bed trail.
“Kyle Flint, 46, of Mars Hill, was operating a 1986 Honda ATV on the rail bed trail in Bridgewater at approximately 9:30 p.m. when the accident occurred. He was traveling alone at the time,” said Edith Smith, director of information and education, Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.
Smith said Flint was about nine-tenths of a mile south of the intersection with Corner Road, traveling north, when he struck a tree that had fallen across the trail at head height.
“The tree apparently fell onto the trail due to thunderstorms in the area,” said Smith.
According to Smith, Flint was able to stay on the ATV, traveling about 120 feet before stopping.
“There were no skid marks prior to the crash and the ATV’s headlight was fully functioning,” she said.
Flint was able to call for help himself, calling 9-1-1 on his cell phone, indicated Smith.
“He was transported to The Aroostook Medical Center suffering from severe injuries to his face, specifically his jaw and right eye. He was later sent via Lifeflight to EMMC in Bangor,” said Smith, adding “no further information on his condition is available at this time.”
Smith said Flint was not wearing a helmet.
The Maine Warden Service warns all persons riding ATVs to use caution when riding at night.
“And drive at a speed that allows them to avoid hazards within the range of their headlights,” said Smith.
Recent storms have caused a large number of blow-downs, blocking area trails and making travel difficult and, in some cases, causing trails to be impassable. Local clubs have been busy this summer removing downed trees and repairing rain-damaged trails, to ensure riders’ safe passage.
The Maine Warden Service continues to investigate Flint’s accident. Alcohol does not appear to be a factor.
