Trucker Named TCA Highway Angel for Going Above and Beyond at Accident Scene

10/10/2023
Alexandria, Virginia

ALEXANDRIA, VA—The Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) has named truck driver John Hamilton, from Hot Springs, AR, a TCA Highway Angel for stopping to help after an accident and assisting rescue personnel. Hamilton drives for Melton Truck Lines out of Tulsa, OK.

It’s an incredible story: On Friday, August 25th, Hamilton was driving home around 3:30 p.m. on US 70 in Hot Springs, Arkansas, when he came upon a two-vehicle accident that likely occurred about a minute or two before he showed up on the scene. Hamilton immediately maneuvered his truck to redirect traffic and got out to render aid if needed. He had previously been trained in combat life saving procedures in the Army and first aid as a corrections officer.

“I hopped out to provide any assistance I could; I tried to divert traffic into a single lane,” he said.

When it was determined it was only minor injuries and no other aid was needed,
Hamilton proceeded to set out his traffic triangles and began directing traffic until first responders could arrive. Then he continued assisting the fire department and state police by directing traffic as needed until the scene was clear. Hamilton believes his military and first aid training are contributing factors as to why he stopped to try to help.

“We don’t just ignore situations; we go in when we need to,” he said. “You’ve got to help.”

Since the TCA Highway Angels program’s inception in August 1997, nearly 1,300 professional truck drivers have been recognized as Highway Angels for exemplary kindness, courtesy, and courage displayed while on the job. Thanks to the program’s presenting sponsor, EpicVue, and supporting sponsor, DriverFacts, TCA is able to showcase outstanding drivers like Mr. Hamilton.