Dealing With a Swift Transportation Truck Accident

A truck accident can occur at any time, and the consequences are frequently disastrous. Even though only 4% of cars on the road are tractor-trailers and other commercial trucks, truck accidents result in approximately 11% of all traffic fatalities.

According to federal data, there were 15,902 Swift trucks in 2023 and 15,000 drivers. Swift trucks were involved in 876 road accidents. Swift drivers were caught in 1,828 unsafe driving violations.

Trucking accidents are more likely to result in fatalities and severe injuries. They have a higher chance of fatalities than auto accidents due to trucks’ size and weight.

Since trucks are heavier and larger than cars, there is a greater chance of serious injury or damage in an accident involving a truck. Compared to cars, trucks require a greater stopping distance. They are heavy vehicles that take longer to stop completely, which makes it difficult to avoid collisions, particularly in emergency situations.

Facts About Swift Trucking Operations

Swift Transportation specializes in trucking and offers logistics and transportation services. With a sizable fleet of vehicles, it provides truckload services to clients all over North America.

Swift Transportation offers various transportation services, including long-haul trucking, regional trucking, dedicated services, and intermodal transportation. It is involved in the transportation of various goods and commodities.

In 2017, Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings Inc. was formed as a result of Swift Transportation merging with Knight Transportation. The combination made one of the biggest truckload carriers in the US, which was a huge step forward for the trucking sector.

Throughout its operation, Swift has been known for its vast fleet and wide geographic reach, catering to clients all over North America.

Common Causes of Swift Truck Accidents

Numerous factors can lead to truck accidents involving Swift Transportation or any other trucking company. Some common situations and unsafe driving violations that can lead to Swift Transportation truck accidents include:

  • Distracted Truck Drivers: Accidents can result from drivers being distracted by things like eating, adjusting controls, or using a cell phone.
  • Speeding: One of the main causes of truck accidents is driving too fast for the conditions of the road or exceeding speed limits.
  • Driver Fatigue: Driving for extended periods without enough sleep can cause driver fatigue, which can slow down reaction times and decision-making. Federal statistics indicate that approximately 13 percent of large truck accidents in the United States yearly are caused by fatigued drivers.
  • Blind Spots: There are blind spots on trucks, Swift Transportation trucks included. Accidents with other cars may occur if these blind spots are not checked.
  • Inexperienced Drivers: Swift is known to hire and train new truck drivers. Accidents may occur as a result of truck drivers’ inadequate training. Drivers must be trained to operate big cars, maneuver through traffic, and comprehend safety rules.
  • Hours of Service Violations: To help ensure that drivers remain awake and attentive, “hours of service” refers to the maximum amount of time drivers are allowed to be on duty. It includes driving time and specifies the number and duration of rest periods.

Types of Injuries from Swift Trucking Accidents

Swift truck accidents can cause serious injuries due to the size and weight difference between trucks and other vehicles. Common injuries that result from these accidents include:

  • Head Injuries: Concussions to more serious traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are examples of head injuries. The impact of the collision or coming into contact with items within the car could cause these injuries.
  • Orthopedic Injuries: The force of a truck collision can cause fractures and broken bones. This includes the ribs, spine, pelvis, arms, and legs.
  • Burn Injuries: Truck accident victims may suffer burn injuries if a fire or explosion occurs. Burns can vary in severity and necessitate long-term medical care.
  • Spinal Cord Injuries: These injuries can have serious repercussions, impairing sensory and motor abilities. They have the potential to cause severe impairment or paralysis.
  • Amputations: Sometimes, the force of a truck crash or being trapped in a car can result in severe injuries or traumatic amputations.
  • Internal Injuries: A truck collision can result in internal injuries, damaging the kidneys, liver, or spleen. It can also lead to internal bleeding.
  • Soft Tissue Injuries: Soft tissue injuries, which involve muscles, tendons, and ligaments, are common in truck accidents. They can lead to pain, swelling, and restricted movement.
  • Psychological Trauma: A truck accident’s emotional toll may cause psychological trauma, such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Severe accidents can also lead accident victims to develop trauma-induced diabetes. Diabetes can develop or worsen as a result of specific trauma-related injuries, stressors, or medical conditions.

When Should You Call Swift Truck Accident Attorneys?

Before the victim speaks with a truck accident attorney, a representative from the trucking company may make a settlement offer. This is an attempt on their part to reduce their liability. Victims have the best chance of getting justice and fair compensation if they hire an experienced personal injury lawyer.

Reputable truck accident lawyers will do everything to establish the fault of the other party to strengthen a personal injury claim. They will gather pieces of evidence, interview witnesses, inspect the Swift Transportation truck driver’s log, and consult with experts. They will investigate if the at-fault party has violated federal regulations, which led to the trucking accident.

To add to that, a truck accident lawyer can verify whether the Swift driver is experienced or not. Swift has a proven track record of hiring fresh graduates from driving schools as new drivers. Unlike experienced drivers, new ones tend to panic when caught in a traffic problem, which can be a big problem when they operate commercial trucks.

The Average Settlement in Truck Accident Cases Against Swift Transportation

Depending on the severity of the injuries, settlement can reach tens of millions of dollars. Settlements can be based on the following:

  • Medical Expenses: Medical bills can easily skyrocket, so victims must get fair compensation.
  • Present and Future Lost Wages: During recovery, the victim may not be able to work, missing the opportunity to earn.
  • Pain and Suffering: Victims can be compensated for the pain and emotional distress they suffer due to the injuries they sustained from Swift trucking accidents.
  • Property Damage: In settlement talks, compensation for damage to the victim’s car and personal belongings is also taken into account.

Big Cases Won By Swift Transportation Trucking Attorneys

Here are two samples of successful truck accident claims involving Swift tractor-trailers.

  • In a trucking accident case in Kansas in 2016, Swift Transportation had to pay the victim $23.5 million. At the time, this was believed to have been Kansas’s largest personal injury verdict.
  • A truck accident claim of $23.5 million was awarded in 2008 when a Swift tractor-trailer driver improperly made a U-turn in a rest area. As a result, he became stuck and backed into oncoming traffic. He did this by hitting the victim’s car, which led to injuries and loss of earning opportunities.

An Experienced Truck Accident Lawyer in Michigan Can Help

Major trucking companies have a legal team that aims to reduce their liabilities in trucking accidents. Truck accidents can be fatal, leading to wrongful deaths. The proven truck accident lawyers at The Clark Law Office will ensure that the responsible parties are held accountable.

We are experienced in fighting giant companies like Swift Transportation and protecting our client’s rights. We will also handle dealing with Swift Transportation’s insurance company so that you get maximum compensation. Call us now for a free consultation.

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