A Colorado truck driver has been recognized after rescuing another driver from an overturned tanker hauling hazardous materials during a rollover crash near Greeley earlier this spring.
The Truckload Carriers Association recently named Lamar Buckwalter, a professional driver with Buckwalter Trucking LLC, a TCA Highway Angel, following the April 2 crash on Route 34 during high-wind conditions affecting commercial vehicles across the region.
Driver Saw Tanker Lose Control During Wind Advisory
Buckwalter was traveling eastbound around 2 a.m. when he saw a tanker truck several vehicle lengths ahead suddenly veer off course before overturning.
The crash sent sparks, debris, and dust into the roadway as the tanker rolled.
“I’ve always believed that God puts us in the right places at the right times. Tonight, he proved this once again,” said Buckwalter. “All I could hear was the driver screaming, ‘Get me out of here, I’m hauling hazmat!’”
After stopping safely, Buckwalter ran toward the overturned truck and made contact with the injured driver inside the cab.
According to TCA, the driver initially told Buckwalter he was trapped but not pinned before becoming unresponsive moments later.
Driver Pulled from Overturned Tanker
Buckwalter broke through the windshield and pulled the driver from the overturned truck while debris and leaking engine fluids surrounded the wreckage.
The driver regained consciousness after being removed from the cab. Because the tanker was carrying hazardous materials, both men moved farther away from the vehicle while another motorist contacted emergency responders.
Buckwalter remained with the injured driver, who suffered bruising and head injuries, until first responders arrived at the scene.
TCA said Buckwalter later accompanied the driver in the ambulance so he could contact family members and his employer, and then provided a statement to law enforcement investigators.
“The officer told me he was very impressed with how quickly everything happened,” said Buckwalter. “I just did what I hope anyone else would do in that situation.”
Highway Angel Recognition Highlights Actions At Crash Scene
The TCA Highway Angel program recognizes truck drivers for acts of courage, courtesy, and public service while working on the road.
The association said nearly 1,500 professional drivers have received Highway Angel recognition since the program launched in 1997.
The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
Source: Truckers News
Image Source: TCA, Truckers News, Lamar Buckwalter
