Chevrolet Silverado fails to negotiate curve and overturns down near Somers
December 20, 2025 | Somers, MT
Tannon Hillis, a 34-year-old resident of Bozeman, lost his life in a devastating single-vehicle accident near Somers on Saturday.
The incident occurred along Buffalo Trail and Running Bison Lane in Flathead County, where the Chevrolet Silverado veered off the road.
Tannon Hillis, 34, of Bozeman, died after a Chevrolet Silverado left the roadway, struck trees, and overturned on Buffalo Trail near Running Bison Lane.
What Happened in the Crash?
Authorities reported that Hillis was riding as a passenger in the northbound Chevrolet Silverado. The vehicle failed to navigate a left-hand curve, plunging down an embankment before overturning onto its passenger side and colliding with trees.
- Date: Dec. 20, 2025
- Location: Intersection of Buffalo Trail and Running Bison Lane, Somers, Montana
- Vehicle: Chevrolet Silverado
- Outcome: Passenger Tannon Hillis pronounced dead at the scene due to crash injuries
- Driver Status: Driver fled the scene, and identity not yet disclosed
The Montana Highway Patrol is leading the investigation into this fatal hit-and-run.
Why Do These Accidents Happen?
Hit-and-run crashes often stem from factors like impaired driving, excessive speed, and roadway conditions. In this case, investigators suspect alcohol, drugs, and speed played roles in the Chevrolet Silverado's loss of control.
Nationwide, such incidents highlight ongoing road safety challenges. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), hit-and-run fatalities rose slightly in recent years.
Year |
Hit-and-Run Fatalities |
Change from the Previous Year |
Source |
|---|
2021 |
2,917 |
Not Available |
NHTSA |
2022 |
2,932 |
+0.5% |
NHTSA |
This table underscores the persistent risks posed by fleeing drivers in motor vehicle accidents.
Legal Insights on Hit-and-Run Cases
In cases such as this, families may pursue civil remedies beyond criminal proceedings. Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal and a national analyst for Newsline, shared insights on handling these situations.
“Separate from criminal charges, a victim’s family may be entitled to compensation through a civil lawsuit against the responsible party,” said Bond. “In addition to the diligent work of law enforcement, an attorney can re-interview important witnesses, analyze any surveillance video from the scene of the crash and obtain phone and texting records of the liable party.”
Bond further emphasized the supportive role of legal representation:
“Serving as an advocate, an attorney can help compassionately guide families during this difficult time, protecting their rights while ensuring that drivers who don't obey traffic laws are held accountable.”
- Attorneys can secure evidence like witness statements and digital records to build strong cases.
- Civil claims may cover losses such as companionship, medical expenses, and emotional distress.
- Professional guidance helps counter insurance tactics for fair settlements.
Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal, highlighted the importance of legal experience in wrongful death claims.
“It is vital for families of victims to hire an attorney when filing a wrongful death injury claim, which allows the attorney to negotiate with an insurance company on behalf of a client,” said Formica. “Insurance companies often try to pressure families of victims to settle for a quick payout for far less than the case is worth. However, an attorney will vigorously advocate for their clients to ensure that they are treated with respect and compensated fairly.”
Pending investigation outcomes, the family of Tannon Hillis could explore options for compensation related to funeral costs, pain and suffering, and other effects.
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If a reckless driver has caused injury or death to you or a loved one, Candice Bond is available for a no-cost consultation to help you understand your options.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).