Truck Delivering Mail To Clarksville Is Deemed A ‘Total Loss’ After Fire

A tractor-trailer caught fire after an accident Monday morning, delaying traffic and likely destroying an entire load of mail.

It was traveling westbound on I-24 and carrying letters and parcels to Clarksville and the surrounding area, according to the U.S. Postal Service. 

“We’re reporting a total loss. The inspection services were on scene evaluating the situation, so our recovery efforts are ongoing at this time,” said Susan Wright, strategic communications specialist with the USPS Tennessee district.

The exact volume is not yet known, Wright said. 

Customers might be able to figure out if their mail was affected, for example, if they ordered a parcel that came with a delivery tracking number that never shows up. Customers who’ve enrolled in USPS Informed Delivery service, which scans images of incoming mail, will also be able to figure out if those letters were lost. Customers who believe their mail was in the accident can call 800-275-8777.

In some cases, Wright says, if the postal service can salvage any delivery or return addresses, they can bag and send the mail on or back.

The Tennessee Department of Transportation describes the accident as a “jack-knifed tractor-trailer,” reported around 4:45 a.m. It’s expected to be cleared by noon. As of Monday morning, westbound traffic is reduced to one lane.