Truckie a guardian angel for rider
Quick thinking truckie helps save motorcyclist on Sydney’s M4Truckies are often the victims when it comes to freeway accidents yet are easy targets on social media and for passing motorists who conflate size with culpability.
Brendon Gilbert knows the feeling all too well. The Silverdale Sand and Soil driver has been named a Bridgestone Bandag Highway Guardian for assisting a motorcyclist who had a medical episode and fell off on one of Sydney's busiest corridors.
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Gilbert was travelling on the M4 behind the rider, who began to hang off his bike and then fall to the ground. Gilbert buried his foot into the brakes to bring his fully loaded truck to a halt and then went to the collapsed rider’s aid alongside another motorist until paramedics arrived.
While Gilbert and his fellow motorist were performing CPR on the rider, incorrect reports emerged that a truck had collided with a motorcyclist, fuelling social media commentary on the accident.
Australian Trucking Association chairman, Geoff Crouch, says Gilbert's actions are another demonstration of truck drivers' skill despite the challenges they face on the road.
"Brendon Gilbert's story is another example of the incredible skills Australian truck drivers have, as well as the vigilance and attention to what is going on around them, and we are delighted to present him with the Bridgestone Bandag Highway Guardian accolade," Crouch says.
"His story is also another example of the public scrutiny our industry is put under when a truck appears to be involved in an incident. This misrepresentation portrayed our industry in a negative light when in actual fact, as demonstrated by Brendon, safety is such a huge emphasis for transport business and their drivers."
Bridgestone Australia and New Zealand managing director, Stephen Roche, says all motorists can learn from Gilbert’s experience.
"Bridgestone and Bandag support this Australian Trucking Association award because of a shared emphasis on safety, and Mr Gilbert is a strong example of how safe driving prevented an accident – with him being aware of what was going on around him and preparing to react if needed," Roche says.
For more information about the award or to nominate a Bridgestone Bandag Highway Guardian, visit the ATA website.
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