The Truckload Carriers Association has named W. Paul Lothary, a professional truck driver for Tom Joy & Son Trucking of Peshtigo, Wis., as its latest Highway Angel. On Nov. 7, Lothary was driving along Highway 41 in Germantown, Wis., when he came around a corner and saw the aftermath of a serious accident. Numerous vehicles were involved.
“I could still see smoke coming out of at least one deployed airbag, so I knew this had just happened,” says Lothary. “I’m trained as a divemaster and a lifeguard, so I knew I would be able to help.”
First, Lothary used his truck to block traffic from causing further harm. Then he grabbed a reflective jacket and emergency kit and went to assess the condition of the victims. He assessed several victims, checking to see which ones needed help the most.
One man in particular was pinned inside his vehicle. His nose was split open, and he had numerous injuries to his eyes and face. Lothary checked his breathing, placed pressure on his wounds and made him as comfortable as possible until authorities arrived.
TCA has presented Lothary with a Highway Angel lapel pin, certificate and clothing patch. The organization also gave Tom Joy & Son Trucking a certificate acknowledging that one of its drivers is a Highway Angel.
