Tower advise either I take off or clear the runway.  SOooo, I took off (BAD CHOICE).!!!!!!!!

Bill,

 

Bummer, glad everyone is OK.  $800 per stitch when Crazy Glue might work.  Your experience reminds me of how valuable the words "stand by" can be.  You just taught me to think more carefully about the aircraft taking off in front of me.  Was the wind drifting the vortices towards the runway?  Did the tower incorrectly request you act before the required time or distance occurred?  See AIM 7-3-9 - 3 minute interval when small aircraft takes off behind large aircraft.  Only the pilot can waive the 3 minute interval. Note: small aircraft is less than 12,500 pounds certificated takeoff weight, large aircraft is any greater than 12,500.