Montana Slip & Fall Accident Lawyer

Experienced Representation for Victims of Dangerous Property Conditions

A slip-and-fall accident can happen in an instant — on a wet grocery store floor, an icy sidewalk, or a poorly maintained staircase — but the consequences can last a lifetime. Broken bones, head trauma, spinal injuries, and chronic pain are just a few of the life-changing outcomes victims often face. At Hoyt & Blewett PLLC, our experienced Montana slip-and-fall attorneys are committed to holding negligent property owners accountable and helping injured victims recover the compensation they deserve.

If you’ve been hurt because of unsafe conditions on someone else’s property, you may have the right to file a premises liability claim. Our firm can help you understand your options and guide you through every step of the legal process.

Call (406) 233-1302 to request a free case review.

Common Causes of Slip & Fall Accidents

Slip-and-fall accidents can occur virtually anywhere, but they often share common causes linked to property owner negligence. Some of the most frequent causes include:

• Wet or slippery floors: Spills, leaks, and freshly mopped surfaces without warning signs are leading causes of falls in public and private spaces.
• Icy or snow-covered walkways: In Montana, property owners must take reasonable steps to clear ice and snow from sidewalks, stairs, and parking lots.
• Uneven flooring or torn carpeting: Loose floorboards, torn rugs, and uneven tiles can easily cause someone to lose their balance.
• Poor lighting: Dimly lit stairways, hallways, or parking lots make it difficult to spot hazards.
• Obstructed walkways: Cords, boxes, or clutter in walkways present a serious tripping hazard.
• Broken steps or railings: Defective staircases are especially dangerous for elderly individuals or those with mobility issues.

No matter the cause, property owners and managers have a legal duty to keep their premises safe for visitors. When they fail to do so, and someone is injured as a result, they may be held liable under Montana premises liability law.

Where Do Slips & Falls Occur?

Slip-and-fall accidents happen in all kinds of locations — from private homes to large commercial properties. Some of the most common places where these incidents occur include:

• Retail stores and supermarkets: Grocery stores, department stores, and malls often have wet floors, dropped items, or crowded aisles.
• Restaurants and bars: Spilled drinks and food can create slick surfaces that go unnoticed by staff.
• Workplaces: Employees, particularly in construction, manufacturing, and healthcare, face frequent slip-and-fall risks on the job.
• Apartment complexes: Landlords are responsible for maintaining safe stairways, hallways, and common areas.
• Hotels: Unsafe pool decks, bathrooms, or entryways can lead to guest injuries.
• Sidewalks and parking lots: Cracked pavement, potholes, and icy conditions can easily cause pedestrians to fall.

Whether your accident happened on private, commercial, or government property, our attorneys will investigate the circumstances and determine who is responsible for your injuries.

Proving Liability in a Slip & Fall Accident

To recover compensation in a slip-and-fall case, the injured person must prove that the property owner or manager was negligent. In Montana, this typically means establishing the following elements:

1. The property owner owed you a duty of care. Property owners have a duty to maintain reasonably safe conditions for lawful visitors.
2. They breached that duty. Failing to fix hazards, provide warnings, or conduct regular inspections can be considered negligence.
3. Their negligence caused your injury. You must show that the unsafe condition directly led to your fall and resulting injuries.
4. You suffered damages. Medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering are examples of recoverable damages.

Evidence is key in proving liability. Our legal team gathers photos, video surveillance, witness statements, maintenance records, and expert testimony to build a strong claim. We also work with medical professionals to document the full extent of your injuries.

At Hoyt & Blewett PLLC, we understand that property owners and their insurance companies often try to shift blame onto victims. Our Montana slip-and-fall attorneys will fight to ensure your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

A successful slip-and-fall claim can help you recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses: Emergency care, surgery, physical therapy, and ongoing treatment.
• Lost income: Wages lost while you recover or future earning potential if you cannot return to work.
• Pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by your injuries.
• Permanent disability or disfigurement: For long-term or life-altering injuries.
• Loss of enjoyment of life: When your injuries prevent you from engaging in activities you once enjoyed.

Our attorneys will pursue every available avenue to ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible for your losses.

Slip & Fall Claim FAQs

How long do I have to file a slip-and-fall claim in Montana?

In most cases, the statute of limitations for premises liability claims in Montana is three years from the date of the accident. It’s important to act quickly, as evidence can disappear and witnesses may forget details over time.

What if I was partially at fault for my fall?

Montana follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover compensation if you were less than 51% at fault. However, your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Can I sue a government entity for a slip-and-fall?

Yes, but claims against government entities (such as a fall on a city sidewalk) have special rules and shorter deadlines. It’s crucial to contact a lawyer immediately if your accident occurred on public property.

Do I need a lawyer for a slip-and-fall case?

While you can technically file a claim on your own, having an experienced attorney significantly improves your chances of success. Our Montana slip-and-fall lawyer will handle communications with insurance companies, gather evidence, and negotiate for the best possible outcome.

Contact a Trusted Montana Slip & Fall Attorney Today

If you’ve been injured in a slip-and-fall accident, don’t face the insurance company alone. Hoyt & Blewett PLLC is dedicated to protecting the rights of injured Montanans and helping them rebuild their lives after serious accidents.

Contact Hoyt & Blewett PLLC to talk with a slip and fall attorney in Montana who offers client-focused support and long-standing legal experience.