If you have been involved in a Swift Transportation truck accident, you may be wondering how long it will take to settle your claim. The timeline can vary depending on the severity of injuries, liability disputes, and how cooperative Swift’s insurance company is during negotiations.
Swift Transportation is one of the largest trucking companies in the U.S., with a team of insurance adjusters and lawyers working to minimize payouts. Understanding the settlement process can help you prepare for what to expect and avoid settling for less than you deserve.
At Zinda Law Group, we have over 15 years of experience handling complex truck accident claims. Below, we outline the factors that affect settlement timelines and what you can do to expedite the process.
Factors That Affect How Long It Takes to Settle a Swift Transportation Truck Accident Claim
1. Severity of Injuries
If your injuries are severe, your case may take longer. Settlements should cover not just immediate medical expenses, but also:
- Future surgeries and rehabilitation
- Long-term care
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
If you settle too soon, you may not account for future medical expenses related to your injuries.
2. Liability Disputes
If Swift Transportation’s insurance company argues that their driver was not at fault, they may delay settlement. Proving liability may require:
- Police reports and crash reconstructions
- Black box data from the truck
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) compliance records
To learn more about FMCSA trucking regulations that may apply to your case, visit the FMCSA website.
3. Insurance Company Tactics
Swift’s insurance company may try to:
- Offer lowball settlements early on
- Delay responses to pressure you into settling
- Request unnecessary documentation to slow down the process
Having a truck accident lawyer can help counter these tactics and keep negotiations moving forward.
4. Whether a Lawsuit Is Necessary
Most Swift accident claims settle out of court, but if negotiations stall, filing a lawsuit may be necessary. A court case can add months or even years to the timeline.
Typical Timeline for Settling a Swift Transportation Truck Accident Claim
Days 1–7: Immediate Aftermath
- Seek medical attention and file a police report.
- Gather evidence such as accident photos and witness statements.
- Contact a truck accident attorney to begin evaluating your case.
Weeks 2–8: Filing the Insurance Claim
- Your lawyer will file a claim with Swift Transportation’s insurance company.
- The insurance adjusters will investigate the accident and determine liability.
Months 2–6: Settlement Negotiations
- Your attorney will negotiate with Swift’s insurance provider.
- The insurer may offer a settlement (often lower than you deserve).
- Your attorney counters the offer with full medical and financial documentation.
6+ Months: Lawsuit and Trial (if Necessary)
- If the insurance company refuses a fair settlement, your lawyer may file a lawsuit.
- The case may go through discovery, depositions, and trial preparation.
- A lawsuit could take several months to over a year.
Should You Accept a Quick Settlement from Swift’s Insurance?
Swift Transportation’s insurance company may offer a quick settlement soon after the accident. While it may seem tempting, accepting an early offer can be risky because:
- You may not know the full extent of your injuries yet.
- Future medical costs and lost wages may not be included.
- Once you accept a settlement, you cannot request additional compensation later.
An attorney can help evaluate whether a settlement offer is fair and negotiate for the maximum compensation.
Why You Should Hire a Lawyer for a Swift Transportation Truck Accident Settlement
A truck accident attorney can:
- Gather evidence proving Swift’s liability
- Negotiate with the insurance company to maximize your settlement
- Calculate full damages to ensure all medical bills and lost wages are included
- Take the case to trial if the insurance company refuses a fair payout
At Zinda Law Group, we have helped victims recover millions of dollars in truck accident settlements. Visit our Case Results page to see how we’ve successfully represented truck accident victims.
Take Action Today
Every Swift Transportation truck accident claim is different, and the time it takes to settle depends on the complexity of your case. However, having an experienced attorney can help speed up the process and ensure you receive fair compensation.
Contact Zinda Law Group today for a free consultation. Call (800) 863-5312 or visit our Contact Us page to get started.
John (Jack) Zinda
Founder / CEO
Over 100 years of combined experience representing injured victims across the country.
Available 24 / 7|Free ConsultationNeil Solomon
Partner
Real results matter. We do not get paid unless we win your case.
Available 24 / 7|Free Consultation