Tractor Trailer Fire Shuts Down I-24 Westbound
Then the trailer become engulfed in a blaze.
Bruce Garner, Chattanooga Fire Dept,"He tried to use a portable fire extinguisher to get the fire out but he was unsuccessful and the fire spread from the tires to the brakes on up into the trailer itself and from there the fire really took off."
A dozen EMS units including three fire trucks were called to help tackle the flames after the driver called 911.
"We actually had to bring our own water supply, there are no hydrants along the interstate so in addition to several fire companies we also brought in a tanker to get extra water and the fire fighters utilized that to get the fire out in the trailer."
Three Yates towers were needed to move the wreck once the fire had been put out.
Truckers have come to the defense of the Averitt driver who escaped unharmed.
Carl Evans Jr.Truck Driver,"It’s not always the driver’s fault it has to be investigated with competent law enforcement professionals to where you can get some positive results and be able to come to a conclusion so it won’t happen again."
Evans feels the experience of the Averitt driver in pulling to the side of the interstate immediately played a major role in keeping commuters safe.
Carl Evans Jr.Truck Driver,"As long as the mechanics are okay, if you are an experienced driver you can get down a steep grade pretty safely but if you are a newbie just out of school and have no experience it could be a scary experience."
The Averitt cargo truck was carrying insulation for cars which also caught fire.
The truck was Alabama bound.
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