What Happens When a USPS Truck Damages Your Property?

A Georgia business owner recently asked a frustratingly common question: What do you do when a federal postal carrier damages your property and no one from the post office will return your calls?

 

In this case, a USPS truck hit the fence at a commercial property. A police report was filed, but after initial conversations, the post office stopped responding. The business owner was told that the federal government doesn’t carry insurance. Now what?

 

If you’ve ever tried to get restitution from a government agency, you know it’s often a lesson in patience and paperwork. But there is a process, even if it’s not exactly streamlined.

When a federal agency causes property damage, you can’t simply go through a typical insurance process. (iStock)

Start Here: Filing a Federal Tort Claim

When a federal agency causes property damage, you can’t simply go through a typical insurance process. That’s because the U.S. government doesn’t operate like a private citizen or company.

 

Instead, you need to file a tort claim under the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA). Specifically, this means filling out Standard Form 95, also known as SF-95. This form is used to request compensation from the federal government for personal injury, property damage, or death caused by the negligent actions of federal employees.

 

Here’s what you should know:

  • You have two years from the date of the incident to file the claim.
  • The form requires specific details, including the amount of money you’re claiming and a clear description of the incident.
  • After submission, the federal agency (in this case, the USPS) will evaluate your claim and either approve, deny, or ignore it. If denied or if you don’t get a response within six months, you have the right to file a lawsuit in federal court.

Want to skip the limbo? Make sure your form is clear, detailed, and supported with evidence: photos, police reports, repair estimates, and witness statements.

The U.S. government doesn’t operate like a private citizen or company. (iStock)

Don’t Expect a Quick Callback, But Don’t Give Up

In theory, USPS has a tort claims representative whose job is to handle issues like this. In reality, many claimants report having trouble getting anyone to follow up. 

 

Here’s a practical path forward if you’re getting radio silence:

  1. Ask your local postmaster for the name and contact information of the USPS tort claims representative for your region.
  2. Document your follow-up efforts. Keep a log of who you called, when, and what was said.
  3. Mail your SF-95 via certified mail so you have proof it was received.
  4. Get your elected officials involved.

That last step might be your best option. Most U.S. Senators and House Representatives have local offices with staff who handle constituent services. These teams can intervene on your behalf, especially when a federal agency is unresponsive. They can’t guarantee a win, but they can often help escalate your case and shake loose the red tape.

 

Why This Matters (Even If You’re Not a Business Owner)

Property damage caused by federal employees isn’t just limited to postal trucks. It could be an IRS vehicle backing into your parked car, or a National Park employee accidentally damaging your fence. The same rules apply: no private insurance, no simple claims portal, but a formal process exists.

 

Many people never file because they assume they don’t have a chance against the government. But valid claims are paid. According to the Department of Justice, the federal government paid out hundreds of millions in tort claims in recent years, including property damage cases.

 

The key is persistence and paperwork.

 

So, What Can You Do?

If you’re dealing with something like this:

  • Download and complete Standard Form 95.
  • Gather as much documentation as possible before filing.
  • Contact your local postmaster or the USPS consumer affairs office.
  • If stonewalled, call your U.S. Senator’s or Representative’s local office for assistance.
Be prepared for a wait, but don’t let that stop you. (iStock)

Have you ever had to file a federal claim? What was your experience, and would you do anything differently?

 

Filing a tort claim with the government may not be the most fun way to spend your week, but it’s often the only route to getting reimbursed for damages caused by federal employees. Stay organized, stay persistent, and don’t be afraid to ask for help, especially from the people elected to represent you.