The Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) has honored truck driver Tony Doughty from Greenville, Texas, as a TCA Highway Angel for his swift and heroic actions in two separate incidents. Doughty, employed by Woody Bogler Trucking in Gerald, Mo., demonstrated exceptional courage and quick thinking during these challenging situations.
The first incident unfolded on Nov. 8, around 11 a.m., while Doughty was driving on Interstate 280 near Toledo, Ohio. A single-vehicle accident occurred as a red Lincoln SUV collided with a Jersey barrier, spinning 360 degrees into the I-280 southbound entrance ramp.
“It happened right in front of me,” Doughty said. “He lost control on that curve and was in the middle of the highway, totally disabled.”
As a volunteer firefighter, Doughty immediately pulled over and strategically positioned his truck to block the left lane, preventing further accidents. His wife, Alison, promptly dialed 911 to alert the necessary emergency personnel. Doughty played a crucial role in assisting the injured driver out of the vehicle. He continued to block traffic until the Toledo Fire Department arrived, ensuring the safety of the accident scene.
“Me being a volunteer firefighter — if I can stop to render aid, I will stop to render aid. It was just in my nature to stop and see if he’s ok,” Doughty said about the crash victim.
Doughty’s second act of heroism took place a few days later, on Nov. 12, along Interstate 12 in Albany, La. Around 2:10 a.m., as traffic slowed, he noticed a grass fire dangerously close to several homes. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Doughty took immediate action. There was a police officer at the scene, but without any way to fight the fire.
“I told the cop: ‘I’m a volunteer firefighter; I know how to handle a grass fire,’” Doughty said. “When I showed up, the fire was raging, so I just jumped out and went to work. I grabbed my fire extinguisher, and I grabbed my leaf blower, and had the fire 95% put out before the fire department showed up… I could’ve just drove on, but I can’t do that — that’s not me. I was just doing what I’m trained to do.”
The TCA Highway Angels program, launched in August 1997, has recognized nearly 1,300 professional truck drivers for their extraordinary acts of kindness, bravery, and quick response in critical situations. Tony Doughty’s actions exemplify the spirit of a Highway Angel, showcasing the positive impact truck drivers can have beyond the road.
Source: The Trucker
