Great Falls Premises Liability Lawyer

Ready to Hold Property Owners & Managers Accountable for Your Injuries

If you’ve been injured due to dangerous conditions on someone else’s property, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, medical bills, and other damages. At Hoyt & Blewett PLLC, our experienced Great Falls premises liability attorneys are here to help you understand your rights and fight for the justice you deserve. Property owners have a legal obligation to keep their premises safe for guests, customers, and in some cases, even trespassers. When they fail to meet this duty, they can and should be held accountable.

Contact us today at (406) 233-1302 to schedule your free case evaluation.

Montana Premises Liability Law

Premises liability law in Montana falls under personal injury law and holds property owners or occupiers legally responsible for injuries sustained on their premises due to unsafe or hazardous conditions. Whether the property is residential, commercial, or public, owners must maintain it in a reasonably safe condition and provide warnings about known dangers.

Under Montana law, the level of care a property owner owes depends on the visitor's legal status:

• Invitees – These are individuals invited onto a property for business purposes, like customers in a store. Owners owe the highest duty of care to invitees and must regularly inspect and fix any dangerous conditions.
• Licensees – Social guests fall into this category. Owners must warn them of known dangers that aren’t immediately obvious.
• Trespassers – While the duty to trespassers is limited, property owners may still be liable for injuries to child trespassers under the “attractive nuisance doctrine,” such as a poorly secured swimming pool or construction site.

To recover compensation in a premises liability case, the injured party must prove that:

1. A dangerous condition existed on the property.
2. The owner knew or should have known about it.
3. The owner failed to take reasonable steps to address the hazard.
4. The dangerous condition caused the injury.

At Hoyt & Blewett PLLC, we know how to investigate these elements and build strong claims to support your case.

Common Types of Premises Liability Cases

Premises liability claims in Great Falls can arise in a variety of settings. Some of the most common types of cases our law firm handles include:

• Slip and Fall Accidents: These are the most frequent type of premises liability case. Causes can include wet floors, uneven sidewalks, icy entrances, or cluttered walkways. Property owners must promptly fix these issues or post visible warnings.
• Dog Bites and Animal Attacks: Montana follows a “one-bite rule,” meaning a dog owner may be liable if they knew or should have known their animal was dangerous. Victims can recover compensation for physical injuries, emotional trauma, and scarring.
• Negligent Security: If someone is assaulted or robbed on a property due to a lack of adequate lighting, cameras, or security personnel, the owner may be liable for failing to protect guests and patrons, especially in hotels, bars, and apartment complexes.
• Swimming Pool Accidents: Unfenced or unsupervised pools can result in serious or fatal injuries, particularly involving children. Pool owners must meet state safety requirements to avoid legal liability.
• Elevator and Escalator Accidents: Improper maintenance of elevators and escalators in buildings can cause severe injuries. Property owners must ensure all machinery is inspected and serviced regularly.
• Retail Store Accidents: Falling merchandise, slippery floors, and poorly maintained aisles are all risks in supermarkets, big-box stores, and shopping centers. Store owners and operators can be held responsible for preventable injuries.

If you’ve been hurt in any of these or similar scenarios, contact a Great Falls premises liability lawyer at Hoyt & Blewett PLLC to discuss your options in a free consultation.

FAQs About Premises Liability Claims in Great Falls, MT

What should I do after a premises liability injury?

Seek immediate medical attention, report the incident to the property owner or manager, take photos of the dangerous condition, gather witness information, and contact a lawyer as soon as possible.

How long do I have to file a premises liability claim in Montana?

Montana has a three-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including premises liability cases. This means you must file your lawsuit within three years of the date of the accident, or you may lose your right to compensation.

What damages can I recover in a premises liability case?

You may be eligible to receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, future medical treatment, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and, in some cases, punitive damages.

Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault?

Yes. Montana follows a modified comparative negligence rule. As long as you were less than 51% at fault, you can still recover damages—though your compensation will be reduced in proportion to your percentage of fault.

Will the property owner’s insurance cover my injuries?

Most premises liability cases are paid out through the property owner’s liability insurance policy. We can help negotiate with insurers to ensure you receive a fair settlement.

Do I need a lawyer for a premises liability claim?

While it’s not legally required, having a skilled lawyer can significantly increase your chances of a successful outcome. The legal team at Hoyt & Blewett PLLC can investigate your case, gather evidence, handle negotiations, and represent you in court if necessary.

Reach out for a compassionate consultation by calling (406) 233-1302. Let us help you stand firm and secure the compensation you deserve in Great Falls.