News / Legal Articles

Must read and featured news and legal insights from Odegaard Injury Lawyers.


Paul Odegaard Earns Best Lawyers in America Award for 2025

Posted: 08/19/2024

 News    Workers Compensation    Personal Injury  

Partner attorney Paul Odegaard is recognized by peer reviewed Best Lawyers for the award of Best Lawyers in America for 2025.

The top 10 Most Dangerous Jobs in America for 2024

Posted: 07/18/2024

 Workers Compensation   Safety   Workplace Injury  

Workplace fatalities are on the rise. Find out which jobs and occupations are the most dangerous.


Tips For Minimizing Cognitive Distractions While Driving

Posted: 04/25/2024

 Motor Vehicle Accident   Safety  

When it comes to driving distractions, cognitive distractions are particularly important to understand. These distractions affect your mental focus while driving, potentially increasing the risk of accidents.


Winter driving in Montana is Snow Joke

Posted: 02/26/2024

 Safety   Motor Vehicle Accident  

Whether you've lived in Montana your whole life or just moved here, you need to be ready, careful, and alert on the road. Here are some tips from actual Montanans across the state about how to survive driving in the winter.


Paul Odegaard Earns Best Lawyers in America Award for 2024

Posted: 11/02/2023

 News   Workers Compensation   Personal Injury  

Partner attorney Paul Odegaard is recognized by peer reviewed Best Lawyers for the award of Best Lawyers in America for 2024.


Will A Government Shutdown Affect My Workers' Compensation Benefits?

Posted: 10/11/2023

 Workers Compensation  

Amidst political turmoil on Capitol Hill, the government can reach a point of shutdown. During this time, numerous federal services come to a halt, leaving many to wonder about the status of their workers' compensation benefits.


Harley Riding in Montana: Driving Tips to Ensure a Safe, Smooth Ride

Posted: 07/25/2023

 Safety   Motor Vehicle Accident  

Montana is a great state for motorcycle enthusiasts, with its scenic roads, diverse terrain, and wide-open spaces. However, riding a motorcycle also comes with certain risks, especially for Harley riders.


What To Do If You're Hurt On The Job in Montana

Posted: 05/22/2023

 Workers Compensation   Workplace Injury  

Getting hurt on the job can be a hard situation to deal with. But, it doesn't have to be. Read these crucial steps to protect your rights.


Do You Need a Lawyer with a Workers' Compensation Claim?

Posted: 04/13/2023

 Workers Compensation   Workplace Injury  

Workers’ compensation is a system that's supposed to provide benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries. However, there are many issues that can arise when filing a claim.


What Do You Do When You Hit a Deer in Montana?

Posted: 12/15/2022

 Motor Vehicle Accident   Safety  

It's peak season for deer related accidents in Montana and the odds of hitting one are pretty high. Why are deer accidents so common in Montana and how to avoid them?


The Top 5 Workers' Compensation Questions Answered

Posted: 09/12/2022

 Workers Compensation   Workplace Injury  

We've compiled the top questions injured workers often have after they get hurt on the job. Do any of these sound familiar?


Motorcycle Season in Montana

Posted: 05/19/2022

 Motor Vehicle Accident   Safety  

There is nothing like viewing the beautiful Montana scenery from a motorcycle. But, before you jump on your bike, take some time now to get your motorcycle ready.


How Advanced Driver Assistance Systems are Improving Roadway Safety

Posted: 02/15/2022

 Motor Vehicle Accident   Safety  

Learn more about driver assistance technologies, how they can help you, and what you should know about these technologies when buying your next vehicle.


Montana Workers' Compensation Glossary of Terms

Posted: 01/14/2022

 Workers Compensation   Workplace Injury  

If you're dealing with a workers' compensation claim, you might be confused by all of the terminology. We break down all of the terms and acronyms.


How Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are making it safer to drive with your smartphone

Posted: 12/06/2021

 Safety   Motor Vehicle Accident  

Smartphone use and texting are some of the most distracting activities you can do behind the wheel. Put your phone down by using these apps.


Road Fatalities in Montana are up 14.8% in 2021

Posted: 11/01/2021

 Motor Vehicle Accident   Personal Injury  

Fatality numbers have increased in part due to the lack of seat belts being worn with risky behavior like speeding, impaired driving, and being distracted.


Can Your Smart Phone Save Your Life?

Posted: 09/16/2021

 Motor Vehicle Accident   Safety  

Your smart device might be able to automatically detect when you're in an accident, ask if you're alright, and automatically call 911.


Can I Receive Social Security Disability Benefits and Workers' Compensation Benefits?

Posted: 04/27/2021

 Workers Compensation   Workplace Injury  

If you are unable to work because of a work-related injury in Montana, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in addition to workers' compensation benefits. The relationship between these benefits can be complicated, here’s what you need to know.


Traffic Deaths Rise Despite Covid Lockdowns

Posted: 04/02/2021

 Motor Vehicle Accident   Personal Injury  

Fatalities grew in 27 states in the first half of 2020, despite a large drop in traffic volume during the COVID-19 pandemic.


The Most Common Questions With Maximum Medical Improvements, MMI

Posted: 03/15/2021

 Workers Compensation   Medical Insurance  

At some point during your WC claim the medical providers you’ve seen for your injury will determine you are at maximum medical improvement, MMI. What does that mean and what does it mean for your WC claim?


Safe driving in severe Montana winters

Posted: 03/02/2021

 Motor Vehicle Accident   Personal Injury  

Winters in Montana can be severe making it both frightening and dangerous for driving. Our car accident lawyers have the following suggestions.


5 Signs You Need to Contact a Workers' Compensation Lawyer

Posted: 02/08/2021

 Workers Compensation   Workplace Injury  

The process involved with a Workers' Compensation Claim can be extremely confusing after you've been hurt on the job. At what point do you need to reach out to an attorney?


Can I File A Workers' Compensation Claim If I Wasn't Injured On a Specific Day?

Posted: 12/31/2020

 Workplace Injury   Workers Compensation  

Sometimes, a work-related injury happens over time and not on a specific day from a specific accident. Don't miss out on your opportunity to seek workers' compensation benefits.


Can I Receive Social Security Retirement Benefits and Workers' Compensation?

Posted: 12/04/2020

 Workers Compensation   Workplace Injury  

Sometimes, a work injury can be the last straw for a hardworking Montanan who is nearing their retirement. If a worker has done heavy physical work their whole life and an injury takes them out of work, it may be too late for them to start a new career.


Ridley Decision - What Happens When Innocent John is Rear-ended?

Posted: 11/19/2020

 Ridley Series   Motor Vehicle Accident   Personal Injury  

Our Montana car accident lawyers are well versed in the unique car accident laws in Montana and are here to help you.


How does the Slick Streets Policy Affect You When You Are in a Car Accident?

Posted: 10/22/2020

 Motor Vehicle Accident  

As snow continues to pile up in Montana, so does the number of car accidents. What is the Slick Streets Policy and what does this mean for you when you're in an accident?


What happens to my medical benefits when I reach Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)?

Posted: 10/15/2020

 Workers Compensation   Medical Insurance  

Reaching MMI is a critical decision point in the life of a workers' compensation claim. If you need help with your workers compensation claim, we can help!


How the Ridley Decision Impacts Montana Motor Vehicle Accident Law

Posted: 09/29/2020

 Ridley Series   Motor Vehicle Accident   Personal Injury  

Montana motor vehicle accident laws are unique because of the Ridley decision. Our car accident lawyers have experience helping victims receive proper care.


Will workers' compensation retrain me for a different job?

Posted: 08/17/2020

 Workers Compensation   Workplace Injury  

This is one of the most common questions we hear from people who were injured while working in Montana.


Montana Safe Driving

Posted: 08/03/2020

 Motor Vehicle Accident   Personal Injury  

As COVID-19 stay-at-home orders begin to lift and Montanans are traveling more, it is crucial to remember driving safety.


Can I file a workers' compensation claim if I'm exposed to Covid-19 at work?

Posted: 07/16/2020

 Workers Compensation   Workplace Injury  

The Covid-19 pandemic creates an entirely new situation if exposed at your workplace.


Our Billings Office Has a New Address!

Posted: 05/16/2020

 News  

Transwestern Plaza, Building #3 - 550 North 31st Street, Ste 200, Billings, MT 59101


Our Helena Office has a New Address!

Posted: 02/27/2020

 News  

845 Great Northern Blvd. Helena, MT 59601


What Is Cognitive Distraction While Driving?

Posted: 01/20/2020

 Motor Vehicle Accident   Personal Injury  

A cognitive distraction can be just as dangerous as a manual or visual one.


Is Whiplash Considered a Serious Injury?

Posted: 01/15/2020

 Motor Vehicle Accident   Personal Injury  

Whiplash can have different levels of severity - including a serious injury with long-term disabilities.


What Do You Do If Your Car Is Sliding on Ice?

Posted: 12/20/2019

 Motor Vehicle Accident  

Ice accumulating on the roadways can make your daily commute treacherous.


Common Workplace Safety Shortcuts to Avoid

Posted: 11/25/2019

 Workplace Injury   Workers Compensation  

It is natural to want to increase productivity and save time at work by finding shortcuts. There is no shortcut, however, in safety.


Montana's Rate of Uninsured and Underinsured Motorists

Posted: 11/15/2019

 Personal Injury   Motor Vehicle Accident  

If you're involved in a car accident, what do you do if the other person doesn't have insurance? Or, not enough insurance?


25 Most Dangerous Jobs in America

Posted: 10/10/2019

 Workers Compensation   Workplace Injury  

Which jobs and occupations are the most dangerous? The answer might surprise you.


Average Workers' Comp Settlement for a Herniated Disc

Posted: 08/29/2019

 Workers Compensation   Medical Insurance   Motor Vehicle Accident  

A herniated disc is a painful and often temporarily debilitating back injury that is common in some occupations.


Attorney Paul Odegaard Selected for the 2020 Best Lawyers in America

Posted: 08/23/2019

 Workers Compensation   News  

Attorney Paul D. Odegaard was recognized by Best Lawyers, a peer review website for legal professionals, for inclusion in the 26th edition of 'The Best Lawyers in America'. Lawyers were evaluated on multiple levels and chosen by a competitive selection process.


Which Parties Can Be Liable for a School Bus Accident?

Posted: 08/08/2019

 Motor Vehicle Accident   Wrongful Death  

Are school buses the safest vehicles on the road? What happens if your child has been harmed while riding a school bus while on or off the bus?


The Importance of a Timely Workers' Compensation Claim

Posted: 07/30/2019

 Workers Compensation   Workplace Injury  

Workers' compensation is a state-regulated insurance program that provides financial reimbursements for any work-related illnesses and injuries. Workers' compensation can cover a wide variety of injuries and illnesses, but what happens if a claimant waits too long to file a claim?


How to Deal with an Aggressive Driver

Posted: 06/25/2019

 Motor Vehicle Accident  

Coming across an aggressive driver is alarming, but you can protect yourself from potential risks by considering these tips.


What is the Difference Between Workers' Compensation & Personal Injury?

Posted: 05/04/2019

 Workers Compensation   Personal Injury   Workplace Injury  

After sustaining an injury at work, it can be difficult to determine the best course of action to ensure you obtain the compensation you deserve for recovery. It's easy to get overwheled by the distictions between workers' compensation and personal injury and what your options are.


Montana & the Dangers of Distracted Driving

Posted: 03/29/2019

 Motor Vehicle Accident   Personal Injury  

In Montana, distracted driving is a leading cause of traffic accident injuries and fatalities. Efforts have been presented to ban minors for texting, sending, or reading written communication while operating a motor vehicle. What does this mean for you?


Average Settlement Payout for Whiplash Injury?

Posted: 03/18/2019

 Medical Insurance   Motor Vehicle Accident  

While most whiplash injuries can dissipate within a week after an accident, many victims suffer from chronic pain and limited mobility for months.


How Much Do Insurance Companies Pay for Pain and Suffering?

Posted: 03/15/2019

 Medical Insurance   Personal Injury  

This non-economic damage can be difficult to calculate; however, insurance companies have two methods for determining this payout.


Can I Fire My Lawyer Before Settlement?

Posted: 03/14/2019

 Personal Injury   Workers Compensation  

From miscommunication issues to a lack of transparency, you may encounter several issues that indicate you need a better lawyer.


What Is an Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury?

Posted: 02/22/2019

 Personal Injury   Motor Vehicle Accident   Workplace Injury  

What is the difference between complete and incomplete spinal cord injuries? Often these injuries have a devastating impact on an injury victim's life, career, and phychological condition.


One Car Accident, Three Collisions

Posted: 02/08/2019

 Motor Vehicle Accident  

Knowing these three types of collisions is important as each one typically entails different risks and damages.


Montana Highway Death Count Steadily Decreases in 2018

Posted: 01/18/2019

 Motor Vehicle Accident  

Many residents of Montana lose their lives in traffic accidents each year, but new data suggests that Montana's highways are becoming safer.


Personal Injury Settlements & Medicare

Posted: 01/04/2019

 Personal Injury   Medical Insurance  

As your medical bills start piling up, you may start wondering who you can turn to for immediate financial assistance. Fortunately, Medicare will cover any medical expenses related to your personal injury claim. However, there are certain rules and procedures you must follow if you want to benefit from this program.


Why Overloaded & Improperly Loaded Trucks Are So Dangerous

Posted: 12/22/2018

 Motor Vehicle Accident   Personal Injury  

Overloading occurs when a truck is so heavy that it exceeds the weight limits imposed by the FMCSA. But, what are these limits and how do they impact an injury claim?


Montana Code Annotated Title 61

Posted: 12/19/2018

 Motor Vehicle Accident   Medical Insurance  

A few of the most important aspects of this Title pertaining to insurance requirements, licensing requirements, and appropriate conduct behind the wheel.


What Is the Difference Between Contusions and Concussions?

Posted: 11/22/2018

 Personal Injury   Motor Vehicle Accident  

Even though they are separate conditions, contusions and concussions have several similarities.


Determining Liability After a Commercial Motor Vehicle Accident

Posted: 11/16/2018

 Motor Vehicle Accident   Personal Injury  

Liability in trucking accidents is one of the primary concerns when facing injuries and property damage from the large or commercial truck that destroys the car and leads to physical injury.


Montana Auto Insurance Laws

Posted: 11/15/2018

 Motor Vehicle Accident   Medical Insurance  

Montana has laws about the minimum amount of auto insurance drivers must carry.


Wrongful Death & the Importance of Compensation

Posted: 10/28/2018

 Wrongful Death  

When a loved one dies, it takes an enormous emotional toll on family members. It can also cause extreme financial hardship. Laws in each state provide the means to ease that financial burden but what options are available especially if there was a neglegent party?


Montana's Cell Phone and Distracted Driving Laws

Posted: 10/27/2018

 Motor Vehicle Accident  

Distracted driving has become a top cause of fatal car accidents, driven by cell phone use behind the wheel.


Is There a Montana Law Requiring Motorcycle Riders to Wear a Helmet?

Posted: 10/19/2018

 Motor Vehicle Accident  

Before you ride your motorcycle into the Montana sunset, make sure you're obeying all the state's motorcycle laws.


Common Injuries & Illnesses Prevalent in the Coal Mining Industry

Posted: 08/17/2018

 Workers Compensation   Personal Injury  

Coal miners work long hours and is considered one of the most dangerous professions. When an injury occurs, the best action to do right away is seek medical attention.


When Workers' Compensation Isn't Enough

Posted: 07/24/2018

 Workers Compensation   Workplace Injury  

The law in Montana requires all employers to carry workers' compensation for all full-time employees.


Tips for Driving This Summer in Montana

Posted: 07/24/2018

 Motor Vehicle Accident  

Places like Florida and California may make the news more often for their reckless drivers, but Montana is one of the deadliest states for drivers per capita.


Which Injuries Can a Person File a Workers' Comp Claim for?

Posted: 04/13/2018

 Workers Compensation   Workplace Injury   Personal Injury  

Between continuous motion, heavy lifting, and dangerous conditions, accidents in the workplace may happen at any time. If you or a loved one has sustained an injury while on the clock, you may be able to file a workers' comp claim.


What is Workers' Compensation?

Posted: 03/26/2018

 Workers Compensation  

Most people have heard about Workers' Compensation benefits, but unless a person has actually had to file and pursue a "work comp" claim, few people have a full understanding of how the work comp "system" works.


Why Hire an Attorney Recognized by Super Lawyers®?

Posted: 03/13/2018

 News   Personal Injury  

What is Super Lawyers and what does it mean for you for your personal injury case?


Punitive vs. Compensatory Damages

Posted: 02/12/2018

 Wrongful Death   Personal Injury   Workers Compensation  

If you were injured in an accident caused by someone's else's negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. There are two types of damages you may recover as a plaintiff: compensatory damages and punitive damages.


Tarping: A Dangerous Trucker Activity That Creates Work Comp Claims

Posted: 01/22/2018

 Motor Vehicle Accident  

Securing cargo on a truck can be difficult depending on the type of cargo. Tarping is one method that helps make securing equipment quick and convenient but there's lot of factors that can make it dangerous on the road.


How the Truck Driver Shortage Affects Trucking Accident Rates

Posted: 01/04/2018

 Motor Vehicle Accident  

There's an increased demand for trucking services with increase is online shopping and shipping. These expectations have produced a truck driver shortage that you need to consider when driving.