Montana Crane Accident Attorney
Construction sites across Montana—from expanding commercial developments in Bozeman and Billings to major infrastructure projects in Missoula and Great Falls—rely heavily on heavy machinery to build our communities. Among the largest and most vital pieces of equipment on any worksite are cranes. While essential for lifting massive structural components, steel beams, and concrete slabs, cranes are also among the most hazardous machines in the construction industry.
When a crane operation fails, the results are almost always catastrophic. Falling loads, structural collapses, and electrical contacts leave workers with life-altering injuries or result in tragic fatalities. If you or a loved one has been injured in a worksite lifting disaster, securing representation from our Montana crane accident lawyer is critical to protecting your rights and securing the financial recovery you deserve under Montana law.
At Hoyt & Blewett PLLC, our trial attorneys have dedicated decades to standing up for injured individuals against powerful construction corporations, general contractors, equipment manufacturers, and insurance companies. With a proven record that includes over 18 jury verdicts exceeding $1 million and the largest reported individual personal injury settlement in state history ($27 million), our firm brings unmatched experience, resources, and courtroom capability to every complex construction injury claim we handle.
To talk with a crane accident attorney that Montana workers and families can turn to for guidance, contact us today for a free consultation.
What is a Crane?
A crane is a heavy-duty industrial machine equipped with hoist ropes, wire ropes or chains, and sheaves that can be used both to lift and lower heavy materials and to move them horizontally. By utilizing one or more simple machines to create mechanical advantage, cranes lift objects far beyond human capability.
In modern construction, cranes are indispensable for moving raw materials, positioning prefabricated building components, and hoisting heavy tools or debris. However, because of their immense weight, height, and complex mechanics, operating a crane demands extreme precision, comprehensive safety protocols, regular maintenance, and rigorous operator training. A single mechanical defect, rigging mistake, or lapses in site management can quickly turn a crane into a deadly hazards on a job site.
Common Types of Crane Accidents
Crane accidents take many forms, and the type of accident often points directly to who was at fault. Some of the most common include:
- Crane collapses, where the entire structure or boom fails and comes crashing down onto workers and property below.
- Tip-overs, which occur when a crane loses stability due to overloading, improper setup, or unstable ground.
- Dropped loads, where rigging fails or a load is improperly secured and falls onto anyone in the path below.
- Boom failures and mechanical breakdowns, often tied to defective parts or skipped maintenance.
- Electrocution, when a crane's boom or cable contacts overhead power lines.
- Struck-by and caught-between injuries, where a worker is hit by a swinging load or pinned against equipment or structures.
- Falls, involving workers operating from or climbing on crane structures.
Our Verdicts Speak Volumes
Life-Changing Results, Time and Time Again
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$27,000,000 Settlement
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$21,350,000 Jury Verdict
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$11,000,000 Settlement
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$9,790,000 Jury Verdict
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$7,008,000 Jury Verdict
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$6,500,000 Settlement
Frequently Asked Questions
The following are several FAQs about construction accident claims in MT:
How much does it cost to hire a crane accident attorney?
Nothing upfront. We handle crane accident cases on a contingency-fee basis, meaning our fee comes only from a recovery we obtain on your behalf. If we do not win, you owe no attorney fees.
I already receive workers' compensation. Can I still file a claim?
Possibly. Workers' compensation typically bars claims against your direct employer, but it does not prevent you from pursuing a third-party claim against a manufacturer, subcontractor, or other negligent party. These claims often provide compensation that workers' comp does not.
How long do I have to file a crane accident claim in Montana?
Under Montana law, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally three years from the date of the injury, and three years from the date of death for wrongful death claims. However, worksite evidence and crane inspection records can be altered, overwritten, or destroyed very quickly. It is critical to consult an attorney as soon as possible to preserve key evidence.
What should I do after a crane accident?
Seek medical attention immediately, report the incident, and preserve any evidence you can, including photos and witness information. Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance companies before consulting a lawyer, and contact Hoyt & Blewett PLLC to discuss your options.
Navigating a complex construction accident case requires deep familiarity with state and federal safety regulations, crane engineering principles, and aggressive insurance defense tactics.
At Hoyt & Blewett PLLC, we offer:
- Proven trial results: Insurance companies know which law firms actually take cases to trial. Our firm has consistently secured record-breaking verdicts and settlements across Montana, proving our readiness to fight for our clients in the courtroom when fair settlements are refused.
- National recognition: Founding Partner Alexander "Zander" Blewett III is the only attorney in Montana admitted to the Inner Circle of Advocates—an elite organization limited to 100 of the top plaintiff trial lawyers in the nation.
- Comprehensive resources: We work alongside top industry experts—including crane safety consultants, mechanical engineers, accident reconstructionists, and vocational specialists—to build compelling, evidence-backed claims.
- A local, family-run firm: We are Montana attorneys committed to fighting for local families and workers. When you hire our firm, you work directly with dedicated advocates who prioritize your recovery and future.
Call (406) 233-1302 to speak with our team.
