1 hospitalized in near head-on collision with propane truck Thursday in Gilford

GILFORD — Police are crediting a propane driver’s quick thinking for avoiding a head-on collision Thursday, after a driver allegedly crossed the center line and was sent to the hospital.

Police were notified of the accident at 2:59 p.m. on Oct. 29, of a two-vehicle accident on Lake Shore Road involving a propane truck from AmeriGas. Capt. Adam VanSteensburg said an investigation found the truck was driving west toward Laconia when a Nissan Rogue heading east crossed into oncoming traffic.

“The propane truck driver made an evasive maneuver preventing major catastrophe,” VanSteensburg said.

The Nissan collided with the rear of the truck, causing “significant" and “disabling damage” to the truck. Both vehicles were towed from the scene.

Two ambulances were called, and the driver of the Nissan was taken to Concord Hospital-Laconia for evaluation. The driver of the propane truck was evaluated by first responders but “appeared to be uninjured,” and no transportation was necessary.

VanSteensburg said the road was closed while AmeriGas sent two other trucks to transfer the propane to. VanSteensburg said the fire department remained during the process at precaution, and determined the propane canister was intact.

“There were no leaks,” VanSteensburg said.

VanSteensburg said the accident took place just east of the notorious curve near the Belknap Point Inn which has been the cause of so many accidents. The area was identified by town and state leaders as an issue, which Town Administrator Kris Kelley briefly addressed at Wednesday’s selectboard meeting.

This time, VanSteensburg said it doesn’t appear the curve was the problem, and the reason the Nissan crossed the line is under investigation.

“We have witnesses that gave statements as to what they saw,” VanSteensburg said.

VanSteensburg said this accident, involving a combustible gas like propane, could have been a lot worse, if it wasn’t for the truck driver’s maneuver.

“It could have been bad.”