Truck driver awarded for driving 2 million miles accident free

Truck driver awarded for driving 2 million miles accident free

(Reddaway Trucking)


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SALT LAKE CITY — Kevin Otteson was honored Friday for driving his semitrailer more than 2 million miles, completely accident free.

Otteson drove those 2 million miles for Reddaway Trucking, where he has been driving for 23 years. Overall, throughout his 30-year professional driving career, he has driven about 3.5 million miles accident free, he said.

Otteson was presented with a ring from Reddaway Trucking Friday to honor the achievement. Mike Matich, the company's terminal manager, called it a rare accomplishment.

The Magna man said he drives because he likes the solitude. Otteson also makes it part of his normal routine to stop and help drivers whose cars are stuck or those who may need help fixing a flat tire.

His secret to being accident free for so many miles? Otteson said it's important to "pay attention to your surroundings."

"Don't watch just the vehicle in front of you. Watch two or three cars in front of you." he said, adding that it's also important to drive differently in poor weather, allowing yourself extra time in order to stop.

"You've just got to maintain an even keel out here," he advised.

The Volvo cab Otteson drives can pull up to 112,000 pounds. He carries materials such as appliances, tires and buckets for front-end loaders.

Otteson's primary driving route takes him from Salt Lake City to Reno. He also travels occasionally to Denver and Montana. Otteson travels an average of 2,683 miles each week.

Reddaway Trucking provides service throughout the entire western United States and into Canada. The trucking company has 50 service centers and has over 3,000 employees.

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