Montana Personal Injury Attorneys

Kovacich Snipes Johnson, P.C. has over three decades of experience as Montana personal injury attorneys, and extensive experience with serious accident and catastrophic injury claims. Our lawyers have worked tirelessly to help our clients recover the compensation they deserve with some of the largest verdicts and settlements awarded in past injury cases.

If you have been injured in an accident, you want to know that you are trusting your case to a personal injury law firm that is committed to helping you maximize your recovery. You want your attorney to understand what is most important to you and to be able to devise a strategy that helps you reach a positive outcome.

Types of Cases We Handle As a Montana Personal Injury Law Firm

When you retain our firm, you will be working with a law firm that has a strong reputation in the legal community. We start preparing your case for trial the moment you hire our firm, and we vigorously pursue our clients’ goals through each step of the litigation process.

Looking for help with your personal injury case in Montana? Here are the practice areas we handle:

• Products Liability Claims – We handle complex products liability claims with a commitment to holding manufacturers, distributors and retailers accountable for defective products. Whether it’s a faulty automobile part, a hazardous household product or unsafe medical devices, our attorneys have the expertise to investigate these cases thoroughly. We work to identify design flaws, manufacturing defects or inadequate warnings that caused your injury.
• Mesothelioma and Asbestos Claims – We understand the life-altering impact of an asbestos-related diagnosis, and our attorneys are dedicated to pursuing justice on your behalf. We meticulously investigate your exposure history to determine liability, whether from workplace exposure or contaminated products.
• Workplace Accidents – Workplace injuries can be devastating, leaving victims unable to work or facing mounting medical bills. We advocate for employees injured in unsafe work environments, helping them recover the compensation they need. From construction-site accidents to industrial injuries, our team navigates complex workers’ compensation claims and third-party lawsuits.
• Trucking Accidents – Trucking accidents often result in catastrophic injuries due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. Our attorneys are skilled in handling the complexities of these cases, from investigating driver negligence to uncovering violations of federal trucking regulations. We collaborate with accident reconstruction experts to build a strong case and hold trucking companies accountable
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) – Traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries have profound physical, emotional and financial consequences. Our attorneys understand the medical complexities of TBIs and spinal injuries, working with experts to document the full scope of your damages.
• Wrongful Death Cases – The compassionate attorneys at Kovacich Snipes Johnson, P.C., help families navigate wrongful death claims, seeking justice and financial support. From fatal car accidents to workplace tragedies, we build strong cases to hold negligent parties accountable. While no compensation can replace your loved one, we strive to provide the resources you need to move forward.
• Coal Mine Accidents – Montana’s coal mines present unique hazards, and injuries sustained in these environments can be devastating. Kovacich Snipes Johnson, P.C., has extensive experience representing coal miners injured due to unsafe working conditions, equipment failures or employer negligence. We understand the complexities of mining regulations and use our expertise to secure maximum compensation for injured workers.
• Car Accidents – Car accidents can cause severe injuries and disrupt lives in an instant. Our firm handles car accident claims with a focus on securing full and fair compensation for victims. From dealing with insurance companies to proving liability in court, we provide comprehensive legal support.
• Ski & Snowboard Accidents – Recreational activities like skiing and snowboarding carry inherent risks, but negligence can escalate those risks into catastrophic injuries. At Kovacich Snipes Johnson, P.C., we represent clients injured due to poorly maintained slopes, defective equipment or reckless behavior by others. We understand the unique legal challenges of these cases and are prepared to advocate for your recovery.
• Construction Accidents – Construction sites are dangerous places, and accidents often lead to severe injuries. Our firm represents workers and bystanders injured in construction-related incidents, from falls and equipment malfunctions to exposure to hazardous materials.
• Oil Field Accidents – Oil field workers face significant risks, from equipment failures to explosions. Kovacich Snipes Johnson, P.C., has a strong track record of representing clients injured in oil field accidents, holding negligent employers and contractors accountable.
• Medical Malpractice – When medical professionals fail to meet the standard of care, the consequences can be devastating. Our firm handles medical malpractice claims involving misdiagnosis, surgical errors, birth injuries and more. We collaborate with medical experts to prove negligence and recover compensation for your suffering.
• Nursing Home Abuse – Vulnerable nursing home residents deserve the highest standard of care, but unfortunately, abuse and neglect occur far too often. Kovacich Snipes Johnson, P.C., is committed to holding negligent facilities accountable and securing justice for victims and their families. We handle cases involving physical abuse, neglect and financial exploitation with compassion and determination.
• Burn Injuries – Burn injuries are among the most painful and life-altering injuries one can suffer. Our attorneys have extensive experience of representing clients with burn injuries caused by workplace accidents, defective products or unsafe premises. We fight to recover compensation for medical treatments, reconstructive surgeries and emotional trauma.
• Daycare Negligence – Parents trust daycare providers to ensure their children’s safety, but negligence can lead to serious harm. Our firm represents families whose children have been injured due to unsafe conditions, lack of supervision or other forms of negligence. We are committed to holding daycare providers accountable and securing justice for your child.

Our Montana personal injury lawyers have received several awards for their trial skills, and we are frequently associated with other law firms that are handling serious personal injury cases. We have a reputation for getting results, obtaining over $500 million for our past clients. We know that thorough preparation is essential to building a winning case, and we will be ready for whatever happens with your claim.

We represent people throughout Montana who have suffered serious personal injuries. We are extremely selective about the cases that we handle, because we want to devote our complete attention to each one of our clients. We want you to be able to get the representation that you deserve from your law firm.

An Aggressive Montana Personal Injury Law Firm That Will Go the Extra Mile for You

To see if we are the right firm for your case, please call our Great Falls office at (406) 500-5000, or send us an email. We offer free, no-obligation strategy sessions. There are no attorneys’ fees unless we are able to recover compensation on your behalf.

What is the negligence law in Montana?

Key Point of Montana’s Negligence Law

Comparative Negligence

• If a plaintiff (the injured party) is partially responsible for his or her own injury, he or she can still recover damages if his or her share of fault is 50% or less.
• If the plaintiff is found to be more than 50% at fault, he or she cannot recover damages from the defendant.
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This system encourages fair allocation of damages based on fault, but it limits recovery if the plaintiff bears most of the responsibility.

If you’re dealing with a negligence case in Montana, consulting an attorney can help clarify how the law applies to your specific situation.

What is the statute of limitations for personal injury in Montana?

In Montana, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally three years from the date of the injury. This means that you have three years to file a lawsuit seeking compensation for injuries resulting from incidents like car accidents, slips and falls, or other negligence-based events.

However, certain types of personal injury cases have different time limits:

• Assault and Battery: Claims must be filed within two years.
• Wrongful Death: If the death results from a wrongful act or neglect, the claim must be filed within three years.
• Medical Malpractice: Actions must be initiated within two years of the date of injury or when the injury was discovered or should have been discovered. Regardless, no action can be filed more than five years after the date of injury.

It’s important to note that exceptions may apply, such as cases involving minors or individuals with certain disabilities, which can extend these time limits. Given the complexities and potential exceptions, it’s advisable to consult with a Montana personal injury attorney promptly to ensure your claim is filed within the appropriate time frame.

Does Montana allow for punitive damages?

Yes, Montana allows punitive damages, but they are subject to specific legal standards and limitations. Here’s an overview:

1. Purpose of Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are intended to punish the defendant for particularly egregious behavior and to deter similar conduct in the future. They are awarded in addition to compensatory damages (which cover actual losses like medical expenses or lost wages).

2. When Are Punitive Damages Allowed?

Under Montana law, punitive damages may be awarded if the plaintiff proves that the defendant acted with one of the following:

• Actual malice: Intentional conduct intended to harm the plaintiff.
• Actual fraud: Deceptive conduct knowingly committed to cause harm.

The burden of proof is on the plaintiff to demonstrate these actions by clear and convincing evidence, which is a higher standard than the preponderance of the evidence typically used in civil cases.

3. Jury and Judicial Oversight

Punitive damages must be specifically requested in the lawsuit. The jury determines if punitive damages are warranted and, if so, the amount. However, a judge can review and potentially reduce the amount to ensure it complies with the legal cap and principles of fairness.

If you’re considering a claim involving punitive damages in Montana, consulting an attorney is crucial to navigate the complexities of these rules and maximize your chances of success.

What Types of Injuries Are Most Frequently Seen in Personal Injury Claims?

In Montana, personal injury claims often arise from a wide variety of accidents, such as car crashes, workplace incidents and medical malpractice. The injuries involved in these claims can range from minor to life-altering. Below are some of the most common types of injuries sustained in personal injury claims:

1. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)

Traumatic brain injuries can result from car accidents, falls or other severe impacts to the head. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, leading to long-term cognitive, emotional and physical impairments.

2. Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries can lead to partial or complete paralysis, drastically altering a person’s quality of life. These injuries often result from car accidents, construction-site incidents or falls and can require lifelong medical care.

3. Broken Bones and Fractures

Fractures are common in accidents involving high-impact forces, such as motor vehicle collisions, slip-and-fall incidents or workplace accidents. Broken bones can take weeks or months to heal and may lead to long-term mobility issues.

4. Soft-Tissue Injuries

Soft-tissue injuries include sprains, strains and whiplash. These injuries often result from car accidents or falls and can cause significant pain and limited mobility, sometimes requiring extended rehabilitation.

5. Burns

Burn injuries can occur in fires, chemical exposure or explosions, especially in workplace environments like oil fields or industrial settings. Burns can lead to severe pain, permanent scarring and emotional trauma.

6. Internal Injuries

Blunt-force trauma from accidents can cause internal bleeding or damage to organs, which may not be immediately apparent. Prompt medical attention is critical for diagnosing and treating these potentially life-threatening injuries.

7. Lacerations and Scarring

Deep cuts or lacerations can cause significant blood loss, infection risk and long-term scarring. These injuries are common in accidents involving sharp objects, machinery or broken glass.

8. Amputations

Severe accidents, particularly in industrial or construction settings, can lead to the loss of limbs. Amputations significantly impact a person’s ability to work and live independently, requiring extensive rehabilitation and prosthetics.

9. Psychological and Emotional Injuries

Accidents can leave a lasting impact on mental health, resulting in conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety or depression. Emotional distress is often a significant component of personal injury claims.

10. Wrongful Death

In cases in which an accident results in the loss of life, surviving family members may pursue wrongful death claims to seek compensation for their losses, including funeral expenses and loss of companionship.

Each injury comes with its own unique challenges, and obtaining fair compensation often requires a thorough understanding of both the short- and long-term impacts on the victim’s life. Consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney is crucial to navigating the legal process and maximizing recovery.

Why Hire Kovacich Snipes Johnson, P.C., for my personal injury claim?

Choosing the right law firm to handle your personal injury claim can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Kovacich Snipes Johnson, P.C., is a trusted name in Montana personal injury law, known for delivering exceptional results and providing compassionate, client-focused representation. Here’s why you should trust us with your case:

1. Proven Track Record of Success
   With over three decades of experience, our firm has secured some of the largest verdicts and settlements in Montana’s history, recovering over $500 million for our clients. Our results speak to our dedication, skill and ability to handle even the most complex cases.
2. Experienced and Knowledgeable Attorneys
   Our team of award-winning trial lawyers is highly skilled in personal injury law. We thoroughly understand the legal landscape in Montana and have the expertise to navigate your case, whether it involves a catastrophic injury, wrongful death or workplace accident.
3. Client-Centered Approach
   At Kovacich Snipes Johnson, P.C., we put our clients first. We take the time to listen to your concerns, understand your priorities, and develop a legal strategy tailored to your unique needs and goals. We are committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome.
4. Aggressive Trial Advocacy
   We are known for our willingness to take cases to trial when necessary. From the moment you hire us, we prepare your case as though it will go to court, ensuring that we are always ready to fight for your rights. Our reputation for aggressive representation often leads to favorable settlements without the need for a trial.
5. Comprehensive Case Preparation
   Our attorneys meticulously investigate every detail of your case, collaborating with top experts and utilizing the latest technology to build the strongest possible argument on your behalf. This thorough preparation is key to achieving maximum compensation.
6. Focused on Serious Injury Cases
   We are selective about the cases we take on, focusing exclusively on serious personal injury claims. This allows us to devote our full attention and resources to each client, ensuring you receive the representation you deserve.
7. Statewide Representation
   We proudly serve clients throughout Montana, including Billings and surrounding areas. No matter where you are located, you can rely on our firm to provide dedicated legal support.

When you choose Kovacich Snipes Johnson, P.C., you’re hiring a team that is passionate about protecting your rights and helping you rebuild your life after an injury. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve.

An Aggressive Montana Law Firm That Will Go The Extra Mile For You

When you choose Kovacich Snipes Johnson, P.C., you’re hiring a team that is passionate about protecting your rights and helping you rebuild your life after an injury. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve.