A UPS truck driver in Detroit, Michigan has just reached a safe driving milestone that may have also established a national record. The 73-year-old truck driver has made it 51 years without causing an accident on the job. The driver recently usurped a man from Ohio who apparently went 50 years without an accident before retiring. Unlike that man, the 73-year-old shows no signs of stopping. When asked about retiring, he said "I'd be bored -- too much free time."
During his more than half century on the road without causing an accident, the 73-year-old has travelled nearly 1 million miles. His coworkers and superiors hailed his performance and workmanship, with a company spokesman calling him "one of a kind."
There are a couple of things to learn from this story, and the first directly relates to that spokesperson's comment. "One of a kind" is a very apt way of describing the truck driver. Most drivers rack up a truck accident or two during their careers, simply because that is the nature of the job: over time, an accident is likely to occur. But some drivers don't observe proper safety protocols, or they operate their vehicle in a negligent way.
These truck drivers are often reprimanded, and a civil lawsuit is also likely. The driver and the truck company can be held liable for an accident caused due to the negligence of the truck driver.
Ultimately though, this is a happy story. It truly is an amazing accomplishment by the 73-year-old, and we can only hope that his incredible streak not only continues, but also inspires other drivers to be just as safe out on the road.
Source: UPI, "Michigan UPS driver reaches 51 years without an accident," Oct. 28, 2013
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