Vessel 1 was heading South in the Myakka River.  The operator, leaned over and began talking to the passengers when he lost control of the vessel.  The vessel turned hard to starboard throwing all the occupants towards the port side.  one victim was ejected from the vessel and her leg was struck by the propeller.  another victim injured her ribs during the fall.  operator was able to regain control of the vessel and rescue victim1 from the water.  operator contacted 911 operated the vessel to shore for medical help.  victim1 was air-lifted to Lee Memorial Hospital where one of her legs had to be amputated where she remains in critical condition.  victim2 was taken to Faucett Memorial Hospital for rib injuries; victim1's right leg was amputated just above the knee.  She also had contusions and lacerations to the back of her left leg.; victim2 had contusions to the left side of her sternum. Updated Bard, steering system cannot maintain direction without operator at helm, engine torque turns steering if helm is let go.  Operator left the helm while boat was running
ENGLEWOOD                     