Look Up

 This weekend I attended a NASCAR race at the Kentucky Motor Speedway for a few days. Freightliner Corporation sponsored a parking area for tractor trailers so that drivers could attend and see the race. Jeff Clark and I from “Team Run Smart” were there to talk with drivers and share the race experience together. We had a great time watching the race and spending time with our fellow drivers.


There was an unfortunate learning experience had by all when a driver came into the parking area and his trailer caught one of the telephone lines. It was pouring down rain at the time when this driver was coming in off the road to make his way along side of the trucks and trailers which were already parked. The driver chose to come into the area from across the grass instead of using the entrance which happened to be farther down the road. I understand why he decided to drive in the way he did as it looked like a correct move, however the nose of his trailer tipped up and grabbed a telephone line. He was unaware that he caught a hold of the line and kept going which quickly snapped off three telephone poles. As it turned out… these poles were old and weak as it was an abandoned telephone line. Once the driver stopped, he couldn’t believe what had just happened. He felt terrible and this incident put a damper on his day of fun at the races. He explained to me that he could see the wire was higher than the trailers which were already parked. What he didn’t realize was the nose of his trailer had tipped up coming in from his particular angle and therefore snagged the wire.


Many of the drivers who were present at the event went over to offer their support to the driver. He felt really bad about what happened. We explained to him that if you’re driving a truck long enough… things are going to happen. The only damage other than the telephone pole was a CB antenna and a portable light system.


I suppose the lesson learned was that we all should be aware of our surroundings above us as well as in front and behind. In an area that isn’t normally set up for tractor and trailers, it’s especially important to be aware of your surroundings at all times.


I felt really bad for this driver and offered my support. When he finally calmed down several hours later, he was able to enjoy his day at the races. His day surely started off on the wrong foot, however sometimes no matter how careful you are… things just happen.