PASCO, Wash. – A local truck driver has reached an impressive milestone, driving two million miles without an accident. Chris Poynor, a Tri City native, has dedicated his life to automotive work and safe driving, earning him the title of ‘2 Million Mile Man.’
Poynor has driven the equivalent of more than 80 times around the equator, or four round trips to the moon and back. “The best way I can put it is check everything,” Poynor said, emphasizing the importance of thorough checks before hitting the road.
He added, “I want to get home safely, but also not being selfish, I want everyone else to get home safely.”
Poynor’s skill extends beyond the everyday road, as he competes in truck driving championships at both the state and national levels. He described the events as having “almost like a family atmosphere because you end up seeing the same people over and over again.”
This year, Poynor is set to compete in his eighth national championship. Although he is a two-time division champion, he has yet to secure the overall grand champion title.
“We know what we’re doing, and that’s the reason why we’re considered the professional truck driver when we’re out there,” Poynor stated, highlighting the precision required in handling large vehicles.
On weekends, Poynor takes on a different role as an engineer for his family’s racing team at the Tri-City Raceway. Despite his extensive experience on the road, Poynor finds irony in not racing himself. “I put all my time right here behind the wheel being as safe as I can,” he said, ensuring his family has the best equipment for racing.
Whether on the track or the highway, safety is always Poynor’s top priority. The National Truck Drivers Championships will take place this August in Minneapolis.
