(WKYT) – It has been two years since Troy Caldwell was hit and killed along the interstate in Rowan County while trying to service a vehicle. Other tow truck drivers are hoping a new law will pass next year to make their jobs easier.
Community remembers Caldwell
People in Rowan and surrounding counties say Caldwell left an impression on many.
“I tell you what, I sure miss him. think about him all the time. He was a good man. I mean good to everybody,” said Arie Callahan, a friend of Caldwell’s.
“He had a smile that never stopped. He was an ear to ear smile kind of guy. He had a laugh, no other laugh like his,” said Bubba Johnson, who worked with Caldwell through various towing jobs and joined others in the industry pushing for changes in state laws to make their jobs safer.
Troy’s Law was considered in the past two legislative sessions.
What Troy’s Law would do
“Of course using green lights on the front back, actually anywhere on the truck. And they can use them while in transit or moving debris in the road or moving a vehicle,” said Rep. Richard White, R-99th District.
Troy’s Law passed the House 93-0 last year but was not heard in the Senate. White said there simply was not enough time to get it through both chambers.
Tow truck drivers describe dangers of the job
Johnson and others say tow truck drivers have a dangerous job. He said after Caldwell’s death, they learned of two other deadly incidents.
“It’s one of the most unrecognized dangerous jobs out there. People don’t really think about it but it’s very dangerous. You’re working within 3 inches of traffic moving 70 miles an hour,” Johnson said.
Johnson said the green lights will give tow truck drivers their own identity and help them stand out while on the roadways.
The bill’s original language detailed blue lights on tow trucks, but because of concerns with law enforcement, supporters agreed to change the language to allow green lights on trucks.