Fighting for the Compensation Montanans Deserve – No Fee Unless You Win.
Slip, Trip, or Fall Accidents
Slip, trip, and fall accidents are a leading cause of injury in Montana—sometimes resulting in serious harm like broken bones, brain injuries, or spinal damage. Property owners and businesses are responsible for maintaining safe conditions, and when they don’t, they can be held liable. At McKeon Law, we help injured clients pursue fair compensation after falls in stores, restaurants, parking lots, sidewalks, or private homes—guiding you through your legal options with experience and care.
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What to Do After a Slip, Trip, or Fall Accident
Slip, Trip, and Fall Claims
Slip, trip, and fall accidents are among the most common causes of preventable injuries in Montana. These incidents can happen anywhere—on sidewalks, in stores, at work, or on private property—and often result from dangerous or poorly maintained conditions. While some falls lead to only minor bruises, others cause serious harm such as fractures, head injuries, or long-term mobility issues. At McKeon Law, we help injured individuals pursue fair compensation when their injuries are caused by someone else’s negligence.
Common Slip, Trip, or Fall Accident Claim Examples
This includes floors made slick by spilled drinks, rainwater tracked indoors, or recently mopped surfaces without warning signs. Businesses and property owners are responsible for quickly addressing these hazards or clearly marking them to prevent injury.
Montana winters often create icy conditions, and property owners must take reasonable steps to clear snow and ice from sidewalks, steps, and entryways. Failure to do so can make walking surfaces treacherous, leading to preventable falls.
Broken sidewalks, potholes, or uneven concrete can easily catch a toe or disrupt a step, causing someone to trip and fall. Property owners and municipalities are often responsible for maintaining safe walkways on their premises.
Unsecured area rugs, curled carpet edges, and warped or loose floorboards can create unexpected tripping hazards, especially in businesses or rental properties where high foot traffic increases risk.
Dim or burned-out lighting makes it difficult for people to spot hazards or judge steps accurately. Poor lighting is a common factor in stairway accidents, especially in apartment buildings or public areas.
Boxes, extension cords, merchandise displays, or other obstructions left in walking paths can easily lead to tripping accidents. Business owners and landlords have a duty to maintain clear, safe passageways.
Stairways without handrails—or with loose, broken ones—can be especially dangerous, particularly for older adults or those with mobility issues. A secure handrail can prevent serious injury during a misstep.
Large or concealed potholes are a frequent hazard in parking areas. Whether on public or private property, owners are responsible for maintaining reasonably safe surfaces for pedestrian traffic.
Common Injuries Caused by Slip, Trip, or Fall Accidents
A car accident injury can range from minor to life-altering. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) – Concussions or skull fractures from head impact
- Broken Bones – Wrists, arms, ankles, and hips are commonly fractured in falls
- Spinal Cord Injuries – Falls can cause herniated discs or paralysis
- Soft Tissue Injuries – Sprains, strains, and ligament damage
- Lacerations and Bruises – Cuts and contusions from sharp objects or rough surfaces
- Knee and Shoulder Injuries – Torn ligaments (ACL, MCL) and rotator cuff damage
Montana-Specific Slip, Trip, or Fall Accident Laws
Property Owner Liability – Montana law requires property owners to keep their premises safe for visitors. If a hazardous condition exists and they fail to fix it or warn visitors, they may be liable.
Comparative Negligence Rule – If you are found partially responsible for your fall (e.g., distracted walking), your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Time Limit to File a Claim – You generally have three years from the date of injury to file a slip and fall lawsuit in Montana.
What to Expect When Filing a Slip, Trip, or Fall Accident Claim
Step 1: Investigation of the Incident – Your lawyer will gather evidence, witness statements, and property records.
Step 2: Filing an Insurance Claim – Your attorney will file a claim with the property owner’s insurance company.
Step 3: Negotiation with the Insurance Company – Insurers may offer a low settlement or claim you were at fault. McKeon Law will fight for a fair settlement.
Step 4: Filing a Lawsuit if Necessary – If negotiations fail, we will take your case to court.
Step 5: Settlement or Trial – Many slip and fall cases settle, but if necessary, we are prepared to present your case in front of a judge and jury.
Slip, Trip, or Fall Compensation You May Recover
Victims of slip, trip, and fall accidents may be eligible for various types of compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses – Covers hospital bills, surgeries, medications, and physical therapy.
- Lost Wages – If the injury prevents you from working, you may receive compensation for lost income and reduced earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering – Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
- Permanent Disability – If the fall results in long-term impairments, victims may receive compensation for ongoing care and future losses.
- Wrongful Death – If a loved one dies from a fall, surviving family members can file for funeral expenses and loss of financial support.
Why Work With McKeon Law?
Advocates for Slip, Trip, and Fall Victims in Montana
A slip, trip, or fall might seem minor at first, but it can lead to serious injuries like broken bones, spinal damage, or traumatic brain injuries. Property owners have a duty to maintain safe conditions—and when they don’t, they can be held responsible.
At McKeon Law, we help injured victims pursue compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and long-term care. If a hazardous property condition caused your injury, we’ll fight to get you the justice and support you deserve.
Michael McKeon, Personal Injury Attorney
Michael McKeon, Personal Injury Attorney
Born and raised in Butte, Michael McKeon is a fifth-generation Montanan who has dedicated his legal career to standing up for those injured through no fault of their own. After graduating from the University of Montana School of Law, he returned home to build a practice rooted in trust, integrity, and personal service.
Michael represents clients in personal injury cases, workplace accidents, and insurance disputes—ensuring they’re not alone when facing powerful companies and legal teams. His hands-on approach means clients work directly with him, not passed off to staff, and every case receives the attention it deserves.
Known for his commitment to justice and community, Michael strives to restore dignity to those navigating life after an injury—and to secure the compensation they need to move forward.
Outside the office, he enjoys a fulfilling life with his wife Teresa and their dog, Harley. They value time together exploring new places through travel and appreciating all that Montana has to offer. His time away from work provides balance and perspective, reinforcing the dedication and focus he brings to each client’s case.
Credentials:
- Licensed in Montana and U.S. District Courts of Montana
- Board Member, Montana Trial Lawyers Association
- Member, State Bar of Montana & National Trial Lawyers Association
- Recognized as Top 40 Under 40 & Top 100 Trial Lawyer (NTLA)
- Voted Best Attorney in Butte-Silver Bow (2023)
Camy Allen, Paralegal & Office Manager
Camy Allen, Paralegal & Office Manager
Camy has been a practicing paralegal for over 35 years and has been an integral part of McKeon Law for nearly 30 years as both office manager and paralegal.
Camy and Russ have two adult children, Scout and Saylor, two dogs, Finn and Obie, and two cats, Ellie and Remy.
Personalized Legal Support
Slip-and-fall cases aren’t just about proving that you fell—they’re about proving that someone else’s negligence caused your injury. Many insurance companies and property owners try to shift the blame onto the victim to avoid liability. We push back against these tactics and work tirelessly to build a strong case on your behalf.
- You Work Directly with an Attorney – When you hire McKeon Law, you won’t get handed off to a paralegal or case manager. You will work directly with an experienced personal injury attorney who understands the complexities of premises liability law.
- We Listen, We Investigate, We Fight – Every case is unique, and we take the time to listen to your story, gather evidence, and fight aggressively for full compensation.
- We Limit Our Caseload – Unlike large firms that handle hundreds of cases at once, we take on fewer cases so we can give yours the attention it deserves.
Challenging Insurance Tactics
Insurance companies routinely offer low settlements to injury victims. Many people accept these offers too quickly, not realizing their injuries may require long-term care, ongoing therapy, or future surgeries.
At McKeon Law, we fight to recover full and fair compensation, including:
- Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability and rehabilitation costs
- Punitive damages in cases of extreme negligence
If the insurance company refuses to pay what’s fair, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial to get the justice you deserve.
Proven Success Record
At McKeon Law, we’ve helped numerous Montanans recover compensation after serious slip, trip, and fall accidents. Our results reflect a strong track record in holding negligent property owners accountable:
- Substantial settlements for clients injured due to unsafe walkways and hazardous conditions.
- Successful claims against businesses that failed to maintain safe premises.
- Verdicts against property owners and insurers who tried to deny responsibility.
When you choose McKeon Law, you get a firm ready to take your case to trial if necessary to secure the compensation you deserve.
No Win, No Fee Commitment
You may be wondering, “Can I afford a lawyer?” The answer is yes—because at McKeon Law, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means:
- You pay nothing upfront
- We cover all legal expenses
- You only pay if we win your case
This ensures that every injured victim has access to top-quality legal representation, no matter their financial situation.
Montana-Based Representation
As a fifth-generation Montanan, I understand the unique challenges our community faces. When you work with McKeon Law, you’re not just hiring a lawyer—you’re hiring someone who genuinely cares about the people of Montana and their well-being.
- We understand Montana’s premises liability laws and local court systems.
- We have extensive experience dealing with property owners, businesses, and insurance companies.
- We are committed to holding negligent parties accountable for unsafe conditions.
Slip, Trip, or Fall FAQs
Got questions about your case? Get clear, expert answers from a trusted Montana slip, trip, or fall lawyer.
If a hazardous condition existed (e.g., wet floor, poor lighting, broken steps) and the property owner failed to fix it or warn visitors, you may have a case. Consult McKeon Law for a free case evaluation.
Yes. Montana’s comparative negligence law allows you to recover compensation as long as you are less than 51% responsible for the accident.
In Montana, you generally have three years from the date of the fall to file a lawsuit.
If your claim is denied, you can appeal the decision. McKeon Law focuses on fighting insurance denials.
McKeon Law works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.