Berlin, NH (August 5, 2025) – A weekend UTV rollover in a Berlin-area gravel pit has left two Maine residents injured and one facing charges for reckless operation. The crash occurred on Friday when the driver lost control of the off-highway recreational vehicle during a sharp turn, causing the UTV to drift and roll over onto its side.
New Hampshire Fish and Game officials reported that 28-year-old Niko Foti of Lebanon, ME, was operating the UTV at the time of the crash. According to the department, Foti accelerated while turning, which led to the vehicle tipping over. Both Foti and his passenger, 25-year-old Molly Ryder of Lisbon, ME, sustained injuries in the incident.
Emergency medical services transported both individuals to Androscoggin Valley Hospital in Berlin for treatment. The extent of their injuries has not been publicly disclosed.
Fish and Game released the details on Monday, stating that Foti has been issued a court summons for operating an OHRV (off-highway recreational vehicle) to endanger. Officials are continuing their investigation into the crash, which occurred in a gravel pit, a terrain that poses unique challenges for UTV operation due to loose surfaces and unpredictable slopes.
We extend our well wishes to both individuals as they recover from their injuries and navigate the aftermath of this crash.
Off-Highway Vehicle Accidents in New Hampshire
Recreational vehicle use, including UTVs and ATVs, is a popular activity in New Hampshire’s rural areas. However, these vehicles require skill, caution, and situational awareness, especially when operated in unstable or off-road environments like gravel pits. The crash in Berlin involving two Mainers serves as a stark reminder of how quickly a recreational outing can turn into a medical emergency.
Loose gravel, sharp turns, and uneven terrain can cause UTVs to lose traction and stability, particularly when operated at high speeds. In many rollover incidents, sudden acceleration or abrupt turning contributes to loss of control, exactly what occurred in Friday’s crash, according to Fish and Game.
The legal implications of operating an OHRV recklessly can be serious. Charges like “operating to endanger” not only impact one’s legal standing but also reflect the importance of safety protocols in recreational vehicle use. These cases often highlight the need for better rider education, appropriate speed control, and proper use of protective equipment.
Victims of such crashes, whether drivers or passengers, often face not just physical injury but also financial and legal concerns in the aftermath. Understanding your rights and responsibilities following a recreational vehicle accident is crucial to navigating recovery.
If you or someone you care about was involved in a UTV or ATV crash in New Hampshire, know that there are resources available to guide you through medical, legal, and financial recovery.
Accidents involving recreational vehicles can raise serious concerns, especially when injuries are involved. At Local Accident Reports, we’re here to help you understand what comes next. Connect with us today for compassionate support, reliable updates, and access to local resources that can help you move forward with confidence.
