NC Trucker Honored as Highway Angel for Rescue Efforts in Multi-Vehicle Crash

highway going under underpass

john huffmanJohn Huffman, a truck driver from Hertford, N.C., has been recognized by the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) for his heroic actions at the scene of a devastating multi-vehicle wreck. Huffman, who drives for Load One Transportation located in Taylor, Mich., demonstrated exceptional courage and compassion when he stopped to assist the victims involved.

On the fateful afternoon of June 29, 2023, at approximately 2:30 p.m., Huffman found himself amidst heavy traffic on I-40 eastbound in Knoxville, Tenn. As he navigated through the congestion, he witnessed a harrowing incident unfolding before his eyes. A minivan suddenly accelerated in the midst of the standstill, crashing forcefully into the rear of a white car. The impact propelled the white car into the center median, creating a domino effect of collisions. The minivan continued on its path of destruction, striking yet another vehicle before causing further chaos.

Huffman’s quick thinking drove him to take immediate action.

“I pulled over, jumped out of my truck, ran across all three lanes of traffic, and started checking on everybody,” Huffman said.

Two terrified 18-year-old girls were inside the white car that bore the brunt of the collision. Fortunately, their injuries were minor, but Huffman stood by them until help arrived.

Spotting a child in distress, Huffman raced back to his truck, retrieving a stuffed animal to soothe the young one. He even provided video evidence from his dashcam to aid the authorities.

“It’s the way I was raised, ever since I was a little kid,” he said. “If you see somebody in need and you’ve got the ability to help, you help. This is the way people should be.”

 

Source: Highway Angel