Crash Story: On December 27, 1989, tragedy struck when Kris Mercurio, her husband Alan, and their two children, Brandie and Anthony, were killed in a fiery crash involving an overturned tanker truck with faulty brakes. The tanker truck’s brakes locked, causing the trailer to overturn and block the freeway. With no room to maneuver between the guardrail and the overturned trailer, the Mercurio family collided with the tanker, which exploded upon impact.

The crash was a preventable tragedy, as the driver had ignored prior brake issues. The loss devastated Tami Friedrich, Kris’ sister, but it also ignited her lifelong dedication to improving truck safety in memory of her family.

Relationship/Involvement with TSC: Since 1990, Tami has been a cornerstone of the Truck Safety Coalition, serving as its President and leading its mission with compassion and determination. Her 35 years of advocacy, leadership, and support for crash survivors and families have been instrumental in driving change and creating a community for those affected by truck crashes.

Why Supporting TSC Matters:
“I have been fortunate to be a member of the Truck Safety Family for 30 years. I don’t know where I would be without them. Crash anniversaries and birthdays are especially tough, and I am thankful for my Truck Safety Family for all of their support.” - Tami Friedrich Trakh

Tami continues to honor her sister and family by fighting tirelessly for safer roads and stronger accountability measures, ensuring no other family has to endure the pain hers did.