Vessel 1, with three persons on board, was operating at a high rate of speed when the Operator attempted to navigate through the bridge area.  The Operator reported letting off the throttle, however, she stated that Vessel 1 did not slow down accordingly.  Vessel 1 then struck the inside of the bridge, knocking the Operator unconscious and causing Occupant 1's arm and finger to be crushed and broken between the Operator and the handlebars of Vessel 1.  A Good Samaritan in the area assisted the three Victims, with the Operator being held on Vessel 1 until emergency services arrived and transported her on a backboard for care.  Occupant 1 was able to swim to some nearby rocks where she was also attended to by emergency services.

Investigation determined that Vessel 1 was being operated at a greater speed than was safe to navigate the narrow passage under the bridge and the limited visibility produced by the causeway.  Officers examined Vessel 1 and determined that the throttle seemed to be in working order.
Sandusky                      