When a slip and fall accident turns your life upside down, you need a legal team that not only understands Montana’s unique premises liability laws but treats you like family. Since 1974, Conner, Marr & Pinski has fought to protect the rights of injured Montanans, helping them secure compensation and restore peace of mind.
Our attorneys bring extensive trial experience to slip and fall claims, tirelessly working to achieve maximum compensation for victims. From farmers and ranchers to small business owners, we represent individuals from all walks of life who need strong advocacy when facing the aftermath of a fall-related injury.
What is Premises Liability Law in Montana?
Premises liability law in Montana holds property owners responsible for injuries sustained due to unsafe conditions on their property. We’ll explore what premises liability law entails and how Montana’s comparative negligence model can impact these cases.
Understanding Liability in Slip and Fall Accidents
Determining liability in slip and fall cases can be complex. Our attorneys are skilled at dissecting the details, from evidence of negligence to landowner defenses, ensuring that property owners cannot escape responsibility if their carelessness caused you harm.
How Do Montana Premises Liability Claims Work?
At Conner, Marr & Pinski, we take a hands-on approach to guide clients through each step of the claims process, from gathering essential evidence to negotiating with insurance companies. Our team works to maximize every aspect of your claim, so you receive compensation for both financial and non-financial losses.
Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents in Montana
Some of the most frequent causes of slip and fall accidents in Montana include:
- Icy or slippery sidewalks – Especially common during Montana’s winter months.
- Uneven walkways or flooring – Can create tripping hazards if not properly maintained.
- Poor lighting – Reduces visibility, increasing the risk of tripping or slipping.
- Cluttered or obstructed pathways – Boxes, cords, or other items in walkways create dangerous obstacles.
- Wet or freshly mopped floors – Can lead to slips if warning signs are not displayed.
- Damaged stairs or handrails – Can cause falls, especially for those who rely on railings for stability.
Common Injuries Sustained in a Slip and Fall Accident?
Slip and fall accidents often result in injuries that range from mild to severe, such as:
- Sprains and strains – Commonly affecting wrists, ankles, and knees from sudden twisting.
- Fractures and broken bones – Often occur when victims attempt to brace themselves during a fall.
- Head injuries – Including concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) from direct impacts.
- Back and spinal injuries – Resulting from forceful falls, sometimes leading to long-term pain or disability.
- Bruising and contusions – May seem minor but can be painful and affect mobility.
- Soft tissue injuries – Can include damage to ligaments, tendons, and muscles that may require rehabilitation.
When Can I File a Premises Liability Claim in Montana?
If you’re considering legal action, understanding Montana’s premises liability statutes and timelines is essential. Our attorneys will review your case and help you pursue a claim within the state’s legal deadlines to preserve your rights.
Slip and Fall Statute of Limitations in Montana
In Montana, the statute of limitations for filing a slip and fall claim is typically three years from the date of the accident. This means that you must file your claim within this period; otherwise, you may lose the right to seek compensation for your injuries. However, the timeline may be shorter if a government entity is involved, such as a slip and fall incident on government property.
Protecting Your Rights After a Slip and Fall
After a slip and fall accident, securing your rights is crucial for fair compensation. Conner, Marr & Pinski’s experienced Great Falls personal injury lawyers handle all aspects of your claim—from gathering evidence like incident reports and medical records to negotiating with insurers—ensuring your case is thoroughly prepared.
Our team has a proven record of helping Montanans, including farmers, ranchers, and small business owners, recover compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. We pride ourselves on a family-focused, empathetic approach, offering trusted support from the moment you walk into our historic A.B. Guthrie office. Contact us today at (406) 727-3550 for a free consultation to discuss your case and start protecting your rights.
FAQs
How do you prove negligence in a slip-and-fall accident case in Montana?
To prove negligence, you need to show that the property owner had a duty to maintain safe conditions, that they failed in this duty, and that this failure led directly to your accident and injuries. This often involves collecting evidence like photos of the hazard, incident reports, witness statements, and any available surveillance footage.
How does comparative negligence affect a slip-and-fall claim in Montana?
In Montana, comparative negligence means that if you’re partially at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by that percentage. For example, if you’re found 30% responsible, you can recover 70% of the total damages. However, if you’re more than 50% at fault, you won’t be eligible for any compensation.
What types of compensation can you claim for a slip-and-fall accident?
You may seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. In some cases, you might also pursue damages for long-term disability, scarring, or loss of enjoyment of life.
What steps should you take after a slip-and-fall accident?
First, seek medical attention to document your injuries. Report the accident to the property owner or manager, and collect evidence at the scene if possible—photos, contact information for witnesses, and details of the hazard. Then, consider consulting an attorney to understand your options.
How Long Does a Slip and Fall Case Take To Settle?
The timeline for settling a case can vary widely, depending on the severity of injuries, complexity of the case, and whether the insurance company is willing to negotiate. Some cases settle in a few months, while others, especially those that go to trial, may take a year or more.
How Are Slip and Fall Settlements Calculated?
Settlements are typically based on economic damages (like medical bills and lost wages) and non-economic damages (like pain and suffering). The severity of injuries, long-term impacts, and degree of fault can all influence the final amount.
Who Is Liable in a Slip and Fall Accident?
Liability generally falls on the property owner, though in some cases, a tenant, maintenance company, or even a government entity might be responsible. Liability depends on where and why the accident occurred and whether the responsible party was negligent.
How Long Do You Have to Report a Slip and Fall?
While there’s no set rule on reporting, it’s advisable to notify the property owner as soon as possible, as this creates an official record. However, the legal statute of limitations for filing a claim in Montana is typically three years from the date of the accident.
What Is the Average Settlement for a Slip and Fall Case?
Settlements vary widely based on the severity of injuries and other factors. Minor cases might settle for a few thousand dollars, while severe injury cases could result in settlements of six figures or more.
