Montana’s forests are a cornerstone of the state’s economy, but logging is one of the most dangerous professions in the country. Falling trees, heavy equipment, chainsaws, and remote worksites create a high risk of serious injury. When a logging or forestry accident happens, injured workers often face steep medical bills, lost income, and long recoveries.
At Wall, McLean & Gallagher, our logging accident lawyers in Helena help workers across Montana navigate the workers’ compensation system. We fight to make sure you receive the full benefits you’re entitled to — and we look for other sources of recovery, such as claims against equipment manufacturers or negligent third parties, when available.
Logging is physically demanding, and accidents can happen even when safety procedures are followed. Some of the most common accidents we see include:
Chainsaw injuries – lacerations, amputations, and severe cuts from chainsaw misuse or malfunction.
Falling trees and limbs – crush injuries or fatalities caused by falling timber.
Heavy equipment accidents – injuries involving skidders, loaders, or logging trucks.
Struck-by incidents – being hit by rolling logs or moving machinery.
Slips, trips, and falls – often occurring on steep, uneven, or icy ground.
Transportation accidents – crashes involving log trucks on rural roads.
These accidents can lead to broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, hearing loss, or even wrongful death.
In Montana, most employers must carry workers’ compensation insurance, which pays for medical care and wage replacement if you’re injured on the job — regardless of fault. Workers’ comp can cover:
Medical treatment – hospital care, surgery, rehabilitation, prescriptions.
Wage-loss benefits – partial wage replacement if you’re unable to work.
Disability benefits – for permanent injuries that limit your ability to return to work.
Death benefits – for families who lose a loved one in a fatal logging accident.
Unfortunately, claims aren’t always handled fairly. Insurers may delay payments, deny benefits, or send you back to work before you’re ready. Our Helena forestry accident lawyers step in to protect your rights and push back against unfair treatment.
While workers’ compensation covers most workplace accidents, you may have a separate claim if someone outside your employer caused your injury. Examples of third-party claims include:
Defective equipment – saws, protective gear, or machinery that failed.
Negligent subcontractors – other crews working unsafely and causing injury.
Vehicle accidents – collisions involving logging trucks caused by other drivers.
A third-party claim can allow you to seek additional compensation beyond workers’ comp, including pain and suffering and full lost wages.
If you’re injured in a logging or forestry accident, take these steps to protect your health and your claim:
Report the injury right away – Montana law requires timely notice to your employer.
Get medical treatment immediately – and follow all doctor recommendations.
Document the scene – take photos if possible, and collect witness information.
File a workers’ compensation claim – we can assist with forms and deadlines.
Contact an experienced lawyer – to make sure your rights are protected.
Quick action can make a big difference in how quickly you receive benefits.
Logging injury claims often involve serious injuries, complicated medical care, and multiple parties. Our firm is trusted by workers across Helena and Montana because we:
Have extensive experience handling workers’ comp claims and appeals.
Know the unique risks and legal issues involved in Montana logging work.
Investigate accidents thoroughly to identify all responsible parties.
Communicate clearly and keep you informed at every step.
We’re here to help you secure the benefits you need to support yourself and your family while you recover.
If you’ve been hurt while logging or working in forestry, don’t wait to get help. At Wall, McLean & Gallagher, we represent injured workers across Montana and fight for maximum compensation. Call our office or request a consultation online today to speak with a Helena logging accident attorney. We’ll explain your options, handle the legal details, and work to get you the benefits you deserve.
What if my employer says logging is “inherently dangerous” and denies my claim?
Workers’ compensation covers injuries regardless of whether the work is considered dangerous. You still have the right to benefits.
Can I choose my doctor?
Yes, in most cases you can select your treating physician, though your employer’s insurer may have a preferred provider network.
What if I can’t go back to logging?
You may qualify for permanent disability benefits or vocational rehabilitation to help you transition to other work.
What if a defective chainsaw caused my injury?
You may have a product liability claim against the manufacturer in addition to workers’ comp benefits.
