--According to statements by parties involved, boat owner was attempting to load her boat alone, which Owner said she could not get the engine to start. Two ladies attempted to help Owner load the boat by pulling boat onto trailer with rope. Initially, the trailer was not deep enough in the water and Owner backed truck and trailer farther down ramp. A helper got into boat to help guide the boat while   pulled boat with rope. A helper was then able to start engine. The boat was apparently sitting on the trailer at an angle when throttled forward, causing boat to strike Victim before striking the tailgate of Owner' truck.Victim was pinned between boat and truck for an unknown amount of time. A helper reversed throttle, backing boat away from Victim and the truck before engine died. Victim was assisted by involved parties and bystanders until EMS arrived. She was transported to helicopter landing zone and flown to Erlanger Hospital in Chattanooga for surgery and treatment.
SMITHVILLE                    