In The News

Driver Named Highway Angel For Saving Elderly Man

The Truckload Carriers Association has recognized truck driver William Sydenstricker as a Highway Angel for his effort in helping an elderly man out of his pickup truck following an accident.

On July 21, 2009, while Sydenstricker was headed westbound on Interstate 40 in Arkansas, he witnessed a pickup truck hydroplane in the rain, lose control, veer off the road, hit a tree and spin around. He pulled over to help and found that the driver, an elderly man, had been seriously injured from the impact of his body colliding with the steering wheel. The man could not walk and needed assistance out of his vehicle.

At that moment, the pickup truck caught on fire. Along with another motorist, Sydenstricker helped the man out of the truck to a safe area. Then, he went back to the pickup to retrieve the man's cell phone and other important personal items before it became engulfed in flames.

"In my 48 years on the road, I've never been in a position to help anyone out before," Sydenstricker said. "It feels good, saving a man's life. There's no way he would have gotten out of his pickup by himself."

A driver for John Christner Trucking of Sapulpa, Okla., Sydenstricker received a Highway Angel lapel pin, certificate, and patch for his efforts. John Christner Trucking also received a certificate acknowledging that one of its drivers is a Highway Angel.

To learn more about the program or to nominate a driver, go to www.truckload.org/highwayangels .

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