Swift Transportation Accident Claims

If you or a loved one were injured in an accident involving a Swift Transportation truck, seeking fair compensation can feel overwhelming against such a massive company. Swift is the largest full truckload carrier in the nation.

The physical and emotional trauma of a crash is more than most people are equipped to handle alone, without also navigating complex legal processes against well-funded companies. However, you have rights under the law to recover compensation if you weren’t at fault.

An Atlanta truck accident lawyer from John Foy & Associates will likely have experience fighting against this company because they have so many trucks on the road. Here’s what you need to know about Swift Transportation accident claims and how we can help.

What Should I Do if I’ve Been in an Accident With a Swift Truck?

The most important thing is to get medical assistance immediately if anyone is injured. Call 911 and do not attempt to move severely hurt individuals unless there is an immediate risk, like a traffic hazard or fire. This will also summon the police to document what happened.

If possible, take pictures of the crash scene from various angles as well before vehicles are moved. Get the truck number, contact information, and insurance information from the Swift driver. Finally, collect contact details for any witnesses who saw the accident occur. 

After seeing a doctor, contact a personal injury lawyer with experience in truck accident claims against Swift. An Atlanta personal injury lawyer from John Foy & Associates can properly advise your next steps as well as communicate directly with Swift’s insurer during their investigation on your behalf. 

How Does Liability Get Determined in Accident Claims?

In crashes involving large commercial vehicles like Swift trucks, determining fault or liability is an important part of the claims process. An experienced personal injury attorney will investigate evidence like dashcam footage, police reports, and witness statements.

Swift’s insurance company will also assess liability from their driver’s perspective. If they admit fault, the claim may be more straightforward. However, they often assign partial liability to other parties to limit payout costs. 

Determining liability correctly is key to winning your claim. When liability is unclear, an accident reconstruction may be necessary. Combined with other evidence, this can help establish negligence on the balance of probability to the satisfaction of insurance or in a legal proceeding. 

Should I Speak to Swift’s Insurance Adjuster?

It’s generally not in your best interests to provide a recorded statement to the at-fault party’s insurer without consulting an attorney first. The adjuster’s primary goal is to settle your claim for the lowest possible cost to their company. 

Adjusters are trained to look for ways to minimize liability or cast doubt on the value of claimed injuries during discussions. Anything you say could potentially be used against your case later on. You may be caught unprepared if you don’t have a lawyer early in the process.

A lawyer should be the one to speak to the insurance adjuster, so your legal rights and strategy aren’t inadvertently harmed by what you say. Also, if the adjuster attempts avoidance tactics, your lawyer can recognize this and take appropriate action to handle negotiations quickly.

How Long Do I Have to File a Swift Transportation Accident Claim in Georgia?

In Georgia, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. However, it’s best not to wait that long to file, as evidence can be lost over time. Insurance companies are also more likely to dispute cases if you take a long time to file.

Ideally, you’ll seek legal counsel within a few days of your crash. The earlier you take action, the more effectively your lawyer can represent you and increase the chances of a successful settlement.

If you wait too long and go over the deadline, the court will reject your claim because the evidence will be too old to reach a just conclusion by law. It’s in your best interests to start working with a truck accident attorney as soon as you can after a crash.

What If I Was Partially at Fault for the Accident?

In Georgia, we have a system of “comparative fault” in car accident claims. This means that if you contributed partially to the crash due to your negligence, your award or settlement will be reduced proportionally.

For example, if you are found to be 25% at fault, your total damages will be reduced by 25% before any compensation is determined. If Swift Transportation tries to claim you’re partially at fault, you need to speak with an experienced Georgia accident lawyer right away.

It’s important to disclose all details honestly to your attorney so they can assess your case and give you the best advice. As long as you are less than 50% responsible for the crash, you can still collect damages.

How Can an Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Help Me With My Claim?

Navigating the insurance claims process alone after a serious accident can be extremely stressful and complex. An Atlanta personal injury attorney from John Foy & Associates understands how to effectively negotiate your claim to get you the most money possible.

They know how to evaluate liability and counter any attempts to shift blame or minimize what you deserve. If settlement talks reach an impasse, attorneys can file a lawsuit and bring your case before a judge and jury to decide.

Representation ensures your rights are protected and that you get a fair deal from the insurers. They also help you understand all of your legal options so you can make an informed choice about how to proceed with your Swift Transportation accident claim. Get an lawyer as soon as you can for the best shot at a favorable result.