Brandon Alderson was on the way to work in Sunderland on Tuesday when he spotted the man in distress.
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After pulling over he saw the middle-aged man was gesturing that he needed the Heimlich manoeuvre – and Brandon jumped into action.
He performed the manoeuvre six times before his airways cleared.
Video, taken from Brandon’s van’s dashcam, this week went viral after his dad posted the clip online.
His dad Neil wrote: “One proud dad, our Brandon saved someone’s life yesterday.
“Right place at the right time – good on you son.”
His mum added: “Words cannot express how proud I am of my boy performing the Heimlich manoeuvre yesterday, and potentially saving this man – a total stranger who was choking!”
The Heimlich manoeuvre is often needed when a patient is choking on food or other objects, and their airway is obstructed.
The person performing it places their arms around the choking person from behind, and pull upwards and inwards on the abdomen below the ribcage.
The pressure from this movement can force out whatever is blocking the airway, allowing the patient to breathe again.
Viewers of the clip rushed to the comments to praise Brandon for his quick actions.
One person wrote: “Not all heroes wear capes, some have Hi-Vis jackets on.”
Another added: “So easy for people to pass and not notice or even stop. Fair play!”
A third said: “This is what true heroism looks like! Brandon Alderson’s quick thinking and actions saved a life. Thank you for being an inspiration to us all.”