Abbotsford, BC — Daljit Sohi, a professional driver for Triple Eight Transport Inc., has been named a TCA Highway Angel by the Truckload Carriers Association for his commitment to returning a lost purse to a traveler in distress. The incident occurred on November 29, when Sohi witnessed a motorist drop her belongings at a roadside stop near Golden, British Columbia.
Shailly James, the owner of the purse, was traveling with her four-year-old child between Banff and Salmon Arm when the items fell from her vehicle. The purse contained significant valuables, including $1,100 in cash, a gold chain, and essential identification documents. Unaware that she had lost the bag, James continued driving, prompting Sohi to track her vehicle for over three hours to ensure the items were returned to their rightful owner.
The pursuit ended when James pulled into a gas station in Sicamous to refuel. While she initially felt uneasy about being followed by a commercial vehicle, her concerns vanished when Sohi approached her to return the purse with all contents accounted for. James attempted to offer a $500 reward for his honesty, but Sohi refused the money. The TCA Highway Angel program, which has recognized nearly 1,400 drivers since 1997, honors such acts of integrity performed by those in the trucking industry.
What This Means for Drivers
Professional drivers often encounter situations where they are the only ones capable of assisting stranded motorists or correcting dangerous road hazards. For an OTR truck driver, demonstrating high moral character while representing a carrier reflects the standard of excellence expected across the industry. When a CDL-A driver takes the time to assist others, it improves public perception of the entire professional driving community. Carriers value employees who act with this level of integrity, as it builds brand reputation and fosters trust with the motoring public.
Industry Reaction
The TCA Highway Angel program remains a cornerstone of the industry's effort to highlight the positive impact professional drivers have on daily life. Supported by companies like EpicVue, DriverFacts, and Northland Insurance, the initiative serves as a reminder that the job involves more than just hauling freight. Industry leaders emphasize that these stories of kindness are common among veteran drivers who prioritize safety and community support while navigating long hauls.
Key Points
- Daljit Sohi followed a motorist for three hours to return a purse containing $1,100 and personal valuables.
- The incident occurred on November 29 near Golden, British Columbia.
- Sohi declined a $500 cash reward offered by the motorist upon the return of the items.
- The TCA Highway Angel program has recognized nearly 1,400 drivers for similar acts of service since its inception in 1997.
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