PROFESSIONAL TRUCK DRIVER MICHAEL HUNT RECOGNIZED FOR LIFESAVING EFFORTS

04/24/2009
Alexandria, Virginia

The Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) has recognized truck driver Michael Hunt as a Highway Angel for damaging his own vehicle to help out at the scene of a fatal accident.

The incident took place on October 12, 2008. At approximately 2:20 a.m., Hunt came across a two-car collision that had just occurred on NC 24 near Spring Lake, North Carolina. There were two vehicles involved in the crash, and both had come to rest within five feet of each other.

Initially, Hunt used his fire extinguisher to attempt to put out a fire on one of the vehicles. But the blaze was too strong, and that driver perished. Realizing that the other driver was still alive, Hunt used his own tractor-trailer to push the vehicle away from the fire. According to the report written by Trooper J.E. Stahl of the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, “When Mr. Hunt did this, it damaged his own vehicle. Mr. Hunt’s quick actions helped to save a life from serious injury or death from burns.”

A driver for Mail Contractors of America of Little Rock, Arkansas, Hunt received a Highway Angel lapel pin, certificate, and patch for his efforts. Mail Contractors of America also received a certificate acknowledging that one of its drivers is a Highway Angel.

Since the program’s inception in August 1997, hundreds of drivers have been recognized as Highway Angels for the exemplary kindness, courtesy, and courage they have displayed while on the job.