Auto Accident Injury in Missoula, MT
It’s a typical day in Missoula. You’re driving along familiar routes—perhaps navigating the intersections near downtown or cruising along I-90—when suddenly, the unexpected happens.
The aftermath of a car accident extends beyond the initial shock. You’re faced with medical appointments, insurance claims, and potential legal challenges.
Being informed about the steps to take immediately after an accident and understanding the legal landscape can significantly impact your recovery process. From reporting the incident to seeking compensation, each decision plays a role in your recovery.
You need an auto accident attorney who understands the laws in and around Missoula, MT that will fight for your legal rights and help you receive the financial compensation you deserve.
Auto Accident Injury Statistics in Missoula, Montana
In 2023, Montana reported 102 traffic fatalities, with over 62% of these deaths involving individuals not wearing seat belts. Additionally, 50% of fatal accidents were linked to speeding or suspected speeding. While statewide numbers have slightly decreased compared to previous years, these statistics highlight ongoing concerns regarding road safety.
What to Do After an Auto Accident
Preparation matters—especially when the unexpected happens. If you’re ever in a car accident, knowing what to do next can protect both your health and your legal options. Start with the most critical step.
Receive Immediate Medical Attention
After a crash, don’t wait to get checked out—even if you think your injuries are minor. Some conditions, like internal bleeding or soft tissue damage, may not be immediately obvious. Seeing a doctor right away helps catch hidden injuries early and creates a medical record that could be essential if you decide to file a claim later on.
File a Police Report
Filing a police report provides an official record of the incident, which can be essential when filing insurance claims or pursuing legal action. In Missoula, you can obtain a copy of the police report through the Missoula Police Department’s online reporting system. This document includes details about the accident, statements from involved parties, and the officer’s observations, all of which can support your case.
If an auto accident causes $1000 or more in property damage, injury, or death, those involved must report it immediately. Failure to report could result in a fine, license suspension, or jail time under the Montana Code. If none of the previous conditions exist, then a driver has 10 days to file an accident report.
Gather the Appropriate Documentation
While waiting for officers to arrive after a car accident, collect information from all other drivers involved in the accident, including the following:
- Full name, address, phone number, and email address
- Driver’s license state and number
- Auto insurance company name, policy number, and phone number
After the accident, collect all relevant documents, including medical records, repair estimates, and any correspondence with insurance companies. Keep a detailed record of expenses related to the accident, such as medical bills, transportation costs, and lost wages due to missed work.
Maintaining a journal detailing your recovery process, pain levels, and how the injuries affect your daily life can also be beneficial. This information can provide a comprehensive view of the accident’s impact, supporting your compensation claim.
Recovering Damages After an Auto Accident Injury
In Montana, if you’re injured in a car accident due to another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for various damages. These can include medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
Common injuries associated with motor vehicle accidents include:
- Burn injuries
- Back and neck injuries, such as whiplash
- Brain and head injuries
- Broken bones
- Spinal injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
Auto Accident Laws in Montana
Liability Laws for Missoula
Montana operates under a “modified comparative negligence” system. This means you can recover damages if you’re found to be less than 51% at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if you’re awarded $100,000 in damages but found to be 20% at fault, your compensation would be reduced to $80,000. Understanding how fault is determined and its impact on your claim is crucial when pursuing compensation.
Statute of Limitations in Missoula
In Montana, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit resulting from a car accident is generally three years from the date of the accident. For property damage-only claims, the deadline is two years.
If you’re unsure about how much time you have to file, or whether an exception might apply to your situation, it’s important to consult with a Montana personal injury attorney as soon as possible.
Work With an Experienced Auto Accident Lawyer Near Missoula, MT
Whether your accident happened on Reserve Street, Russell, or a rural highway outside city limits, a Missoula-based personal injury lawyer will understand the regional challenges and laws that impact your case. Don’t let uncertainty or stress stand between you and your recovery. Reach out today to speak with an attorney who will advocate for your rights and help you secure the compensation you need to move forward with confidence.
Submit a request online or call us today at (866) 345-6784 to get in touch with an experienced lawyer in Montana
About the Author
Aaron is a professional legal writer with a B.S. in English Education from Southern Illinois University – Carbondale. He has written, published, and edited thousands of legal articles for RequestLegalHelp, which has connected over 5 million people to legal help in the United States.
With over five years of experience writing thousands of legal articles for law firms across the U.S. and Canada, Aaron specializes in covering federal, state, and city-level legal issues ranging from auto accidents to wrongful terminations.
