To the editor:
I write to send my thanks to all those who braved the treacherous conditions Dec. 11 to help me.
I was returning from counting ballots in Augusta when the snow started about halfway to Wiscasset. About 2 miles from Bristol, my Jeep lost traction in a stretch of black ice and I lost control. The dashcam video caught it all. In a space of four seconds, I went from normal driving to sliding sideways off the road and down an embankment, rolling over, and ending back on all four wheels facing north.
Within 15 seconds, another motorist was at the side of my Jeep, asking if I was OK. While he checked around the Jeep, his wife chatted with me, I’m sure to make sure I was awake and coherent.
Another motorist had stopped and called 911. The Bristol Fire and Rescue trucks arrived within minutes, as did Central Lincoln County Ambulance Service, followed shortly by Quick Turn Towing. When the paramedics satisfied themselves that nothing major was broken and I was lucid, they had me sign a form refusing medical attention and let me know the sheriff’s office was on the way. The Quick Turn driver drove my Jeep to the top of the embankment and I followed to speak with the deputy while the Jeep was pulled onto the flatbed.
The point of all this is that I don’t remember thanking anyone but Deputy Ryan Chubbuck for their reassuring words, kindness, and professionalism. I also don’t remember the names of anyone else who helped me, including the Bristol Fire and Rescue volunteer who knew me and introduced himself.
Hopefully all of them will read this and know that I am as grateful to each of them as I am to whatever angel was sent to keep me safe on that ride down the embankment and through the rollover that followed it. Lincoln County and Bristol are indeed blessed to have such neighbors and professionals. My heartfelt thanks to you all!
Kenneth O. Frederic
Bristol
