Great Falls Industrial Accident Attorney

Helping Injured Workers Seek Justice and Compensation

If you or a loved one has suffered a serious injury while working at an industrial site, you may be entitled to compensation. Industrial accidents can result in devastating consequences, from life-changing injuries to financial hardship. At Hoyt & Blewett PLLC, our experienced Great Falls industrial accident lawyers are here to guide you through the complex legal process and help you get the compensation you deserve.

Schedule a free consultation with us today by calling (406) 233-1302 or filling out our online contact form.

Common Types of Industrial Accidents

An industrial accident refers to any unexpected event that causes injury or illness to workers at an industrial workplace, such as factories, warehouses, power plants, construction sites, and manufacturing facilities. These environments often involve heavy machinery, hazardous materials, and demanding physical labor, all of which increase the risk of accidents.

Common industrial accidents Include:

• Machinery Accidents: Workers can become caught in or struck by industrial machines, leading to severe trauma or even amputation.
• Falls: Slip and fall or falls from heights due to ladders, scaffolding, or faulty safety railings.
• Explosions and Fires: Industrial sites dealing with chemicals, flammable materials, or electrical systems are at high risk of explosions or fires.
• Exposure to Toxic Substances: Workers can suffer long-term health issues from inhaling or coming into contact with hazardous chemicals.
• Vehicle Accidents: Forklifts, cranes, and other industrial vehicles can cause collisions and crush injuries.
• Electrical Accidents: Direct contact with high-voltage power sources can lead to severe burns, shock, or fatal injuries.
• Structural Failures: Collapsing buildings, roofs, or scaffolding can trap or injure workers.

Common Types of Injuries at Industrial Sites

Industrial accidents often result in serious, life-altering injuries that may require extensive medical treatment and long-term care. Some of the most common injuries we see in these cases include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Caused by falls, falling objects, or machinery impacts.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: These can result in partial or full paralysis.
• Burns: From fire, chemicals, or electrical hazards.
• Broken Bones and Fractures: Often caused by falls or heavy equipment accidents.
• Amputations: Sometimes necessary due to crush injuries or irreparable damage.
• Respiratory Illnesses: From exposure to harmful fumes, asbestos, or other toxic substances.
• Hearing Loss: Often the result of prolonged exposure to loud machinery or sudden explosions.

Even injuries that may seem minor at first can lead to long-term complications and disability, which is why it’s vital to seek both medical and legal help after an industrial accident.

Recovering Compensation from an Industrial Accident

If you’ve been injured at an industrial site, there are two main avenues for seeking compensation: workers' compensation and third-party claims.

Workers’ Compensation Benefits

In Montana, most employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. If you are injured on the job, you are generally entitled to:

• Medical expenses
• Wage replacement (temporary or permanent disability benefits)
• Vocational rehabilitation, if needed

One key advantage of workers’ compensation is that you do not need to prove fault to receive benefits. However, this also means you typically cannot sue your employer directly, even if negligence was involved.

Third-Party Personal Injury Claims

In some cases, you may also have the right to file a third-party claim. These are separate from workers’ compensation and apply when another party—besides your employer—was negligent. For example:

• The manufacturer of a defective machine
• A subcontractor or another company on-site
• Property owners or maintenance companies

Third-party claims can provide compensation beyond what workers’ compensation offers, including:

• Full wage loss
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of future earning capacity
• Emotional distress
• Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence

At Hoyt & Blewett PLLC, our Great Falls industrial accident lawyers are skilled in identifying all possible avenues of compensation and will work tirelessly to maximize your recovery.

FAQs About Industrial Accident Claims in Great Falls, MT

How long do I have to file a claim after an industrial accident in Montana?

You generally have one year to file a workers’ compensation claim and three years to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, timelines can vary, so it's best to contact an attorney immediately.

Do I need a lawyer to file a workers’ compensation claim?

While it’s possible to file on your own, having a lawyer significantly increases your chances of receiving full benefits, especially if your claim is denied or if your injuries are severe.

Can I sue my employer if they were at fault?

Montana’s workers’ comp system typically prevents direct lawsuits against employers. However, exceptions exist for intentional misconduct or gross negligence. Your attorney can advise whether such an exception may apply.

What if I were partially at fault for the accident?

In a third-party claim, Montana follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can still recover damages as long as you were less than 51% at fault, but your compensation may be reduced proportionally.

What should I do immediately after an industrial accident?

1. Seek immediate medical attention
2. Report the incident to your employer
3. Document the scene and your injuries if possible
4. Contact an experienced Great Falls industrial accident lawyer

Why Choose Hoyt & Blewett PLLC?

At Hoyt & Blewett PLLC, we bring years of experience advocating for injured industrial workers across Great Falls and Cascade County. We understand the complexities of Montana’s workers’ comp system, as well as the intricacies of third-party personal injury law.

When you hire us, you get:

• Personalized legal strategy tailored to your case
• Aggressive representation in and out of court
• Free consultations and no upfront fees—we don’t get paid unless you win
• A dedicated legal team that listens, cares, and fights for you

Contact us today at (406) 233-1302 to schedule your free consultation with an experienced Great Falls industrial accident attorney.