A well-loved “truck driver influencer” who served as an inspiration for women seeking to enter the predominantly male-dominated field of truck driving has sadly passed away.
Oti Cabadas, 41, also known as Coco Trucker Girl online, passed away on Monday after collapsing while returning from a classic car event. The renowned social media personality, renowned for her positive trucking videos that amassed a substantial online following, began experiencing severe headaches before fainting in Alcaniz, Spain. She was swiftly airlifted to a hospital in Zaragoza but unfortunately succumbed shortly thereafter due to an unexpected stroke.
Originally hailing from Fornelos de Montes, in Galicia, Oti abandoned her career in hairdressing to pursue a career in driving large vehicles. At the age of 22, she first ventured into truck driving and later settled in Palencia, where her career flourished.
Despite being discouraged by a teacher who told her it wasn’t her calling, Oti traveled thousands of miles across Europe, documenting her adventures on the road through videos.
Oti’s charm, humor, and infectious positivity made her a sensation on social media, particularly on TikTok, where she amassed over 300,000 followers. Through her videos, she shared the highs and lows of life on the road, from long hauls to her trademark “red-lip Fridays.”
She utilized her platform to advocate for work-life balance and equal opportunities in the transportation industry. Following her tragic demise, condolences poured in from Spain’s trucking community.
The Spanish Confederation of Freight Transport remarked, “Oti was a source of inspiration for all of us, not just for her zest for life but also for the dedication she exhibited in her profession and the inspiration she instilled in those around her. She paved the way for numerous women in the transportation sector, demonstrating that this domain is not exclusive to men.
“She achieved this by sharing her daily experiences on social media, spreading her energy and enthusiasm to all. Her optimism, ‘red-lip Fridays,’ and the vital lesson she imparted stood out: pursue your passion and always forge your own path.”
Her admirers have flooded her final posts with sorrowful messages and heartfelt tributes. One individual expressed, “Rest in peace Coco, sending hugs to your family and friends, our deepest sympathies.”
Another follower shared, “I began following her on Instagram after spotting her truck parked at La Cabrera’s restaurant. I admired her work. Life is so unpredictable. Rest in peace.”
[Note: The original content includes a CIPA Consent Notice which has not been rewritten as it is not part of the article.]