While undertaking a routine training sortie, the pilot, Lieutenant Commander 'Gav' Simmonite, from the Commando Helicopter Force based at Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton in Somerset, noticed a traffic jam that was building up on the A358 between Axminster and Seaton.
As the aircraft followed the line of traffic an overturned car could be seen in the middle of the road.
Although weather conditions were not ideal, Lt Cdr Simmonite immediately responded by landing his helicopter in a field adjacent to the scene of the accident. The crewman, Sergeant Lloyd, Royal Marines, dashed out to see if they could assist and to discuss with the paramedics and police the best options for the female driver.
It was understood that she had sustained head injuries and because of the adverse weather conditions it was decided that the helicopter would be the quickest method of transporting her to Yeovil District Hospital. Sgt Lloyd said:
"Fortunately the crew of the Sea King helicopter of 846 Naval Air Squadron based at the Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton are accustomed to providing medical evacuation assistance as part of their duties in Afghanistan.
"We were able to respond quickly and were delighted to have supported both the injured lady and the emergency services."
Lt Cdr Simmonite, who was recently awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his exceptional airmanship and handling during an incident in Afghanistan, subsequently contacted the hospital and was informed that the injured driver was undergoing tests.
Click here to read about Lt Cdr Simmonite's battle with the Taliban.