Death of Tow Truck Driver Prompts New Advocacy Group The senseless death of yet another Central Ohio tow truck driver while on the job is prompting the founding of a new advocacy group, Towing and Recovery Operators of Ohio (TROO). The groups mission is to lobby Ohio government for action to protect tow truck drivers and roadside assistance providers in the performance of their duties. The latest incident was the death of John A. Carpenter, Jr., 59, of A&A Towing, who was killed Monday night on State Route 104 near the intersection of Lockbourne Road in Columbus. At least five roadside assistance providers have been struck and killed while assisting stranded motorists during the last three years here in Ohio. Founding TROO is Bob Bridges, a long-time tow truck driver and owner of BB Auto Rescue, who is also a veteran political activist and lobbyist. Bridges has already begun seeking funds for the fledgling group, which is organizing as a 503(c) non-profit. “Anyone whos ever found themselves stuck in a ditch or stranded by the side of the road in a broken-down car knows how vital the work of tow truck drivers and roadside assistance providers is,” Bridges said. “These workers are literally putting their lives on the line every time they step out of their vehicles to give aid, and every year, some of those lives are lost. Frankly, it shouldnt be that way.” Bridges is already taking his case to the Ohio House of Representatives. The initial approach has been made to Rep. Mike Duffey (R-Worthington). “He listened to what I had to say and he wants to address this issue,” Bridges said. He said he plans to meet with Duffey later this week. Persons wishing to contribute to TROO may go to gofundme/ewszug.
Posted on: Wed, 24 Sep 2014 13:32:19 +0000