Great Falls Drowning Accident Lawyer

Seek Justice After a Drowning Accident with Hoyt & Blewett PLLC

Drowning accidents are among the most devastating and unexpected tragedies a family can experience. In a matter of seconds, lives can be forever changed. If you or a loved one has been affected by a drowning accident in Great Falls, MT, you may be entitled to pursue compensation for your losses. At Hoyt & Blewett PLLC, our experienced legal team is here to fight for your rights, hold negligent parties accountable, and guide you through the legal process with compassion and skill.

Our mission is to ensure victims and families obtain the justice they deserve while reducing the financial and emotional burdens caused by such tragedies. If you need a Great Falls drowning accident attorney, we are ready to stand by your side.

Call (406) 233-1302 for a confidential, no-cost consultation. 

What is a Drowning Accident?

A drowning accident occurs when a person is submerged in water and unable to breathe, leading to severe injury or death. While some drowning incidents are accidental and unavoidable, many happen because of negligence, lack of supervision, or unsafe conditions.

Drowning does not always result in death. Non-fatal drowning can cause lifelong health consequences, including brain damage, memory loss, and motor impairment. Because of the severe risks, drowning accidents require serious legal and medical attention.

Common Causes of Drowning Accidents

Drowning accidents can happen in a variety of settings and under different circumstances. Some of the most common causes include:

• Lack of supervision – Children and inexperienced swimmers are especially vulnerable without proper monitoring.
• Defective or missing safety equipment – Broken pool gates, missing life jackets, or faulty drains can create dangerous conditions.
• Unsafe premises – Slippery surfaces, inadequate fencing, or poorly maintained pools can lead to accidents.
• Negligent boating or watercraft operation – Speeding, inattention, or boating under the influence can cause drowning incidents on Montana’s rivers and lakes.
• Alcohol use – Alcohol impairs judgment, balance, and swimming ability, increasing drowning risks.
• Improper training – Lack of CPR knowledge or untrained lifeguards can worsen the consequences of an emergency.

Where Do Drowning Accidents Occur?

Drowning accidents can occur almost anywhere there is water. In Great Falls and across Montana, common locations include:

• Residential swimming pools – Often linked to lack of proper barriers, defective equipment, or inadequate supervision.
• Public pools and waterparks – Facilities have a duty to maintain safe conditions and employ trained lifeguards.
• Lakes and rivers – Montana’s many waterways are popular for recreation, but negligence in boating or inadequate warning signs can lead to tragic accidents.
• Hotels and resorts – Businesses must ensure pool areas are properly maintained and secure.
• Private property – Homeowners may be liable if unsafe water hazards on their property cause injury or death.

Wherever the accident occurs, our Great Falls drowning accident lawyers evaluate all legal options for victims and families.

Who is Liable for a Drowning Accident?

Determining liability is one of the most important aspects of a drowning accident claim. Multiple parties may be held responsible depending on the circumstances, including:

• Property owners – Responsible for maintaining safe conditions, especially around swimming pools and water features.
• Businesses – Hotels, resorts, gyms, or waterparks may be liable for inadequate safety measures or untrained staff.
• Boaters and watercraft operators – Negligent or intoxicated operation can lead to tragic accidents.
• Manufacturers – Defective pool equipment, life jackets, or watercraft components may create liability for product makers.
• Caregivers or supervisors – Babysitters, camp counselors, or lifeguards may be accountable if they failed to provide proper supervision.

At Hoyt & Blewett PLLC, we investigate every angle of your case to ensure all responsible parties are held accountable.

Recovering Compensation After a Drowning Accident

Victims and families may be entitled to significant compensation after a drowning accident. Potential damages include:

• Medical expenses – Emergency treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care for non-fatal drowning injuries.
• Lost wages – Income lost due to injury or loss of a family provider.
• Pain and suffering – Physical and emotional trauma from the accident.
• Wrongful death damages – Funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and financial support for surviving family members.

Our attorneys fight tirelessly to maximize the compensation you deserve, helping your family focus on healing.

Drowning Accident Claim FAQs

How long do I have to file a drowning accident claim in Montana?

Montana law generally allows three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim, and three years from the date of death for a wrongful death claim. However, deadlines can vary, so it is important to act quickly.

What should I do after a drowning accident?

Seek immediate medical care, report the incident to authorities, gather witness statements, and contact an experienced Great Falls drowning accident lawyer as soon as possible.

Can I sue if my child drowned at someone else’s pool?

Yes. If negligence contributed to the accident, the property owner, business, or supervisor may be held liable.

What if the drowning occurred on public property?

Government entities can sometimes be held accountable, but special rules and shorter deadlines apply.

Do drowning accident cases go to trial?

Many claims are resolved through settlements, but if fair compensation cannot be reached, our attorneys are prepared to fight for you in court.

Speak with a Great Falls Drowning Accident Attorney Today

Our team understands the pain and devastation that follows a drowning accident. We are dedicated to guiding you through every step of the process, from investigating liability to pursuing maximum compensation.

Connect with us today to begin finding answers and relief.