Top Portland, ME Car Accident Lawyers

When you’re involved in a car accident, the Portland Police Department will arrive on the scene. They will ensure that everyone involved is safe and document the crash scene details. That includes the date, time, and location of the crash. A police report will also include the accident description, witness information, a diagram of the crash, and citations or violations.

It’s always best practice to get immediate medical attention after a collision, even if you don’t feel hurt. Many injuries don’t produce immediate symptoms but can have serious consequences if left untreated. Northern Light Mercy Hospital is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and is a great option for getting immediate medical help. Other options include Maine Medical Center and Bridgton Hospital.

Car accidents in Portland can occur in various ways. Factors such as the speed of impact, vehicle types involved, and safety equipment used can contribute to the severity of a crash. 

Common car accidents in Portland, ME include: 

• Rear-end collisions: These car accidents happen when one vehicle strikes another from behind. They are often due to tailgating or distracted driving.
• Intersection accidents: Intersections can be hotspots for car accidents, including T-bone collisions. This happens when one vehicle strikes another on the side, often due to running a red light or failing to yield.
• Motorcycle accidents: Motorcyclists face unique risks on the road. Accidents involving motorcycles can happen due to lane splitting, driver inattention, or failure to see motorcycles.
• Parking lot accidents: With tight spaces and limited visibility, parking lots can be prone to fender benders, scrapes, and minor collisions.
• Pedestrian or bicyclist accidents: Portland is a pedestrian and bike-friendly city. Unfortunately, pedestrian and bicyclist accidents can happen due to driver inattention or failure to yield.

Common car accident injuries include: 

• Whiplash: This is a neck injury caused by the sudden back-and-forth movement of the head during a collision.
• Back and spinal injuries: Damage to the back or spine can lead to back pain, weakness, tingling in the limbs, and long-term disabilities.
• Head injuries: Crash-related trauma to the head can result in concussions, contusions, or more severe brain injuries.
• Bone fractures: These are breaks in bones, including arms, legs, and ribs, caused by high-impact crashes.
• Soft tissue injuries: These injuries involve damage to muscles, tendons, or ligaments. They can result in pain, swelling, and stiffness.

Crashes occur on many of Portland’s roads, intersections, and highways. The most dangerous ones include:

• Franklin Street at Marginal Way
• Morrills Corner
• Riverside Street at Larrabee Road
• Forest Ave at Riverside Street
• Congress Street at St. John Street
• Brighton Ave at Stevens Ave
• Interstate 95
• Interstate 291

Q: What steps should I take after a car accident in Portland, ME?

A: If you’re involved in a car accident in Portland, you should first check yourself and others for injuries and call 9-1-1 if necessary. If necessary, move your vehicle to a safe location. Call the police and take photos of the crash scene. It’s critical to seek prompt medical attention to identify any possible injuries and begin building your claim. Lastly, consult with a car accident lawyer who can advocate for you.

Q: What types of compensation am I entitled to?

A: The type of compensation you’re entitled to can vary depending on the extent of your injuries. Your attorney may pursue compensation for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, and loss of consortium, among other damages. If your crash was caused intentionally or due to gross negligence, your attorney may seek punitive damages. 

Q: What if the at-fault driver was uninsured?

A: Maine requires all drivers to carry uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. This allows you to collect damages from your own insurance company if you’re involved in a crash with an uninsured driver. It also applies if you’re hit by an unidentified driver who leaves the scene of the crash. Maine’s minimum UM bodily injury coverage is $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident.