Can I File a Claim for Personal Injury Damages If I Was Partially Responsible in Montana?

Any person who sustains an injury caused by the careless or negligent actions of another individual or entity in Montana should be able to recover compensation for their losses. However, what happens if an injury victim is partially responsible for causing the incident that led to the injuries? Here, we want to discuss how partial… read more

What Are Common Causes of Winter Personal Injuries

Why would a person be more susceptible to personal injuries in the winter? After all, winter is just another season. Unfortunately, the winter can present significant risks when it comes to personal safety. Here, we want to discuss the most common causes of personal injuries that occur in the wintertime in Montana. We also want… read more

Brain Injuries & Slip and Fall Accidents

Most people think of slip and fall incidents as relatively minor inconveniences. However, the reality is that a slip and fall accident can lead to severe injuries, including a traumatic brain injury. Here, we want to discuss various types of traumatic brain injuries that can occur as a result of a slip and fall incident… read more

Amtrak Train in Montana Derails – Three Killed & Fifty Injured

On Saturday afternoon, an Amtrak train traveling across Montana derailed outside Havre, Montana, killing at least 3 people and injuring dozens of others. The train consisted of 2 locomotives and 10 cars run by Amtrak, and the derailment occurred on tracks run by BNSF Railway. In the aftermath of this tragedy, those onboard the train,… read more

Do I Need a Car Seat For Children in Montana?

Child safety seats are essential parts of ensuring that young people remain safe in the event a collision occurs. Every state, including Montana, has requirements related to car seats for young children. Here, we want to review what Montana law says about child safety seats. In particular, we will look at the requirements set forth… read more

Common Causes of Delays in Medical Malpractice Claims

Medical malpractice cases can become incredibly complicated in Montana. The reality is that those harmed due to a medical error need to have a skilled medical malpractice lawyer by their side from the beginning of these claims all the way through to the conclusion of the case. There are various reasons why medical malpractice claims… read more

Demand Letter Template to Insurance Company

We are all familiar with the Ridley case which requires insurers to advance pay in situations where liability is reasonably clear. Ridley explicitly covered the advance payment of medical bills. Subsequently, in Dubray, the rule was clarified to include lost wages. In Shilhanek, and most recently in High Country Paving, the Montana Supreme Court further… read more

Agree or Disagree: My Favorite Way to Depose and Cross-Examine Professional Expert Witnesses

We’ve all dealt with the slick, polished professional witness with a CV a mile long who looks the part of the university professor just there to help “shed light on things” for the jury. The professional witness has mastered the skill every politician learns—no matter the question, give the answer you want to give. Of… read more

Multiple Defendants and Joint Liability- Applying § 27-1-703 MCA

by John Heenan and Joe Cook Mont. Code Ann. § 27-1-703 is the statute addressing multiple defendants. It is frequently invoked by defendants to utilize the “empty chair” defense against settled or judgment-proof defendants and, consequently, we often find ourselves having it used as a sword by the other side. But did you know the… read more

Traumatic Brain Injuries & Auto Accidents

Traumatic brain injuries can leave victims suffering from long-lasting or permanent disabilities. These injuries can completely alter a person’s ability to enjoy their day-to-day life. Unfortunately, vehicle accidents regularly lead to those involved sustaining traumatic brain injuries, along with other types of injuries that the victim may have to contend with. Here, we want to… read more