Contract Haulage Australia driver Steven Young saved a fellow truck driver’s life, earning him the Bridgestone Bandag Highway Guardian accolade.
Young was travelling between Melbourne and Adelaide when he came across a fatal head-on collision involving a car that had allegedly veered onto the wrong side of the road and collided with a fully loaded B-Double.
The collision caused the trailers to roll over and the prime mover burst into flames.
Young pulled the truckie from the burning cab and into the safety of another vehicle until emergency services arrived.
Not only did Young save the truck driver’s life, but he also contacted their employer the following day to check in on their wellbeing following the crash.
Bridgestone Australia and New Zealand managing director Heath Barclay says Young’s story highlights the industry’s camaraderie.
“We’re proud to recognise Steven Young with the Bridgestone Bandag Highway Guardian award,” says Barclay.
“His selfless actions, not just on the night but following the crash, demonstrates that the title is beyond fitting.
“Mr Young prevented a terrible crash becoming worse and showed incredible kindness and care for his fellow truck driver. This is precisely what the Bridgestone Bandag Highway Guardian embodies.”
Australian Trucking Association chair David Smith says it’s incidents like these that see the industry’s best shine, as well as highlighting the importance of road safety.
“I want to congratulate Steven Young on being named a Bridgestone Bandag Highway Guardian,” says Smith.
“Your actions that night and in the follow up were selfless. We’re delighted to present you with this accolade.
“It’s crashes like this that put a spotlight on the dangers our truck drivers are exposed to on a day-to-day basis and highlights the need for motorists to be aware of their surroundings at all times on the road.”
If you know a member of the industry who warrants the title then nominate them at truck.net.au/highwayguardian.
