Motor Vehicle Accidents in Maine: Your Complete Guide to Legal Rights and Recovery

If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Maine, you’re not alone. Maine sees thousands of crashes every year—many of them serious. Whether you were hit by a distracted driver on I-95, rear-ended on Route 1, or involved in a trucking accident on the Maine Turnpike, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Medical bills pile up. Work becomes impossible. Insurance companies call with lowball offers. And the legal process feels confusing.

At Attorney911, we understand what you’re going through. Our team has been fighting for accident victims across Maine for over 27 years. We know Maine’s roads, courts, and insurance tactics inside and out. And we know how to get you the compensation you deserve.

Maine’s Roads: More Dangerous Than You Think

Maine may feel like a safe place to drive, but the numbers tell a different story. In 2024 alone, Maine experienced thousands of motor vehicle accidents—many of them serious. Some of the most dangerous areas include:

I-95 Corridor: This major highway sees heavy truck traffic, especially near Bangor and Augusta. Rear-end collisions, jackknifes, and fatigue-related crashes are common.
Route 1: A busy coastal route with frequent intersections, pedestrian crossings, and distracted drivers. T-bone collisions and pedestrian accidents are a serious risk.
Maine Turnpike (I-95): High-speed trucking traffic combined with sudden weather changes creates hazardous conditions. Rollover accidents and multi-vehicle pileups happen far too often.
Rural Roads: Many of Maine’s rural roads lack proper lighting, signage, and guardrails. Single-vehicle run-off-road crashes and wildlife collisions are frequent.

If you’ve been injured on any of these roads—or anywhere else in Maine—you need a legal team that understands the unique challenges of your case.

Why Maine Accident Victims Choose Attorney911

1. We Know Maine’s Roads and Courts

Maine’s legal landscape is different from other states. Our attorneys have spent decades handling cases in Maine’s courts, from Portland to Bangor. We know the judges, the insurance adjusters, and the tactics that work in Maine.

2. A Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Our Team

Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, used to work for insurance companies. He knows exactly how they evaluate claims, delay payments, and try to minimize payouts. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to fight for YOU.

3. We’ve Recovered Millions for Maine Victims

We don’t just talk about results—we deliver them. Our firm has secured multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for accident victims across Maine. While every case is unique, our track record speaks for itself.

4. We Handle the Toughest Cases

Some law firms turn away complex cases. We don’t. Whether you were hit by a drunk driver, a distracted trucker, or a negligent rideshare driver, we have the experience to fight for you.

5. No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. If we don’t recover compensation for you, you owe us nothing.

Common Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Maine

1. Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions are among the most common accidents in Maine. They often happen in stop-and-go traffic, at red lights, or when drivers are distracted. Even a “minor” rear-end crash can cause serious injuries, including:

Whiplash and neck strains
Herniated discs
Spinal cord injuries
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)

Why These Cases Are Strong:
In most rear-end collisions, the trailing driver is at fault. Maine law requires drivers to maintain a safe following distance. If the other driver was tailgating, speeding, or distracted, they may be liable for your injuries.

What to Do Next:
If you’ve been rear-ended, seek medical attention immediately—even if you feel fine. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms right away. Then, call Attorney911. We’ll help you gather evidence, document your injuries, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

2. T-Bone (Intersection) Accidents

T-bone accidents—also called side-impact collisions—often occur at intersections when one driver runs a red light or stop sign. These crashes are especially dangerous because the sides of vehicles offer little protection.

Common Injuries:

Broken ribs and pelvis
Internal organ damage (spleen, liver, kidneys)
Spinal cord injuries
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)

Why These Cases Are Strong:
If the other driver ran a red light or stop sign, they are almost always at fault. Maine law requires drivers to yield the right-of-way when required. If the other driver violated this rule, they may be liable for your injuries.

What to Do Next:
If you’ve been involved in a T-bone accident, call the police immediately. Get the names and contact information of any witnesses. Then, contact Attorney911. We’ll investigate the crash, gather evidence, and hold the at-fault driver accountable.

3. Single-Vehicle and Run-Off-Road Crashes

Single-vehicle crashes—where a car runs off the road or rolls over—are often caused by:

Poor road conditions (potholes, missing guardrails)
Vehicle defects (tire blowouts, brake failures)
Driver fatigue or impairment
Wildlife collisions (moose, deer)

Common Injuries:

Broken bones
Spinal cord injuries
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Internal bleeding

Why These Cases Can Be Complex:
If no other vehicle was involved, you might assume there’s no one to blame. But that’s not always true. If your crash was caused by a road defect, a vehicle malfunction, or a negligent driver who forced you off the road, you may still have a claim.

What to Do Next:
Preserve your vehicle and any evidence from the scene. If you suspect a road defect or vehicle malfunction, contact Attorney911 immediately. We’ll investigate the cause of your crash and identify all liable parties.

4. Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions are among the deadliest accidents on Maine’s roads. They often occur when a driver crosses the centerline due to:

Distracted driving
Drunk or drugged driving
Fatigue
Wrong-way driving

Common Injuries:

Fatalities (head-on crashes are often deadly)
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Spinal cord injuries
Broken bones

Why These Cases Are Strong:
Head-on collisions almost always involve clear negligence. If the other driver was distracted, impaired, or driving the wrong way, they are likely at fault.

What to Do Next:
If you or a loved one has been involved in a head-on collision, seek medical attention immediately. Then, contact Attorney911. We’ll investigate the crash, gather evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

5. Sideswipe Collisions

Sideswipe collisions often happen when drivers change lanes without checking their blind spots. These crashes can be especially dangerous when they involve large trucks or high speeds.

Common Injuries:

Broken bones
Whiplash
Spinal injuries

Why These Cases Can Be Complex:
Insurance companies often argue that both drivers share fault in sideswipe collisions. But if the other driver failed to check their blind spot or signal, they may be liable.

What to Do Next:
If you’ve been sideswiped, document the damage to your vehicle and seek medical attention. Then, contact Attorney911. We’ll gather evidence and fight for your rights.

6. Pedestrian and Cyclist Accidents

Maine’s walkable cities and scenic bike paths make it a great place for pedestrians and cyclists. But when drivers fail to yield, the results can be devastating.

Common Causes:

Distracted driving
Failure to yield at crosswalks
Speeding in school zones
Drunk or drugged driving

Common Injuries:

Broken bones
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Spinal cord injuries
Wrongful death

Why These Cases Are Strong:
Maine law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians and cyclists. If the driver was distracted, speeding, or impaired, they may be liable for your injuries.

What to Do Next:
If you’ve been hit as a pedestrian or cyclist, seek medical attention immediately. Then, contact Attorney911. We’ll investigate the crash and fight for the compensation you deserve.

7. Motorcycle Accidents

Maine’s scenic roads attract motorcyclists from all over. But when drivers fail to see motorcycles, the results can be catastrophic.

Common Causes:

Drivers turning left in front of motorcycles
Distracted driving
Speeding
Drunk or drugged driving

Common Injuries:

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Spinal cord injuries
Broken bones
Road rash

Why These Cases Can Be Complex:
Insurance companies often try to blame motorcyclists for their own injuries. But if the other driver was negligent, you may still have a strong case.

What to Do Next:
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, seek medical attention immediately. Then, contact Attorney911. We’ll gather evidence and fight for your rights.

8. Commercial Truck Accidents

Maine’s highways see heavy truck traffic, especially on I-95 and the Maine Turnpike. When truck drivers or trucking companies cut corners, the results can be deadly.

Common Causes:

Driver fatigue (violating Hours of Service rules)
Improper maintenance (brake failures, tire blowouts)
Overloaded or improperly secured cargo
Distracted or impaired driving

Common Injuries:

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Spinal cord injuries
Broken bones
Wrongful death

Why These Cases Are Strong:
Trucking companies are required to follow strict federal safety regulations. If they violate these rules, they may be liable for your injuries.

What to Do Next:
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, contact Attorney911 immediately. We’ll preserve evidence, investigate the crash, and hold the trucking company accountable.

9. Rideshare Accidents (Uber and Lyft)

Rideshare accidents are becoming more common in Maine. If you were injured as a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver, you may have a claim.

Key Facts:

Uber and Lyft provide $1 million in liability coverage during active rides.
If the rideshare driver was waiting for a ride request, coverage may be limited.
Rideshare companies often try to deny liability by claiming drivers are “independent contractors.”

What to Do Next:
If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, contact Attorney911 immediately. We’ll determine the driver’s status at the time of the crash and fight for the compensation you deserve.

10. Delivery Vehicle Accidents (Amazon, FedEx, UPS)

Delivery vehicles are everywhere in Maine, from Portland to Bangor. When delivery drivers are pressured to meet tight deadlines, accidents happen.

Common Causes:

Distracted driving (checking delivery apps)
Speeding to meet delivery quotas
Improperly secured cargo
Fatigue

What to Do Next:
If you’ve been hit by a delivery vehicle, contact Attorney911 immediately. We’ll investigate the crash and hold the delivery company accountable.

11. DUI and Alcohol-Related Crashes

Drunk driving is a serious problem in Maine. In 2024, hundreds of people were killed or injured in DUI-related crashes.

Key Facts:

Maine has strict Dram Shop laws, which means bars and restaurants can be held liable if they overserve a drunk driver.
DUI crashes often involve punitive damages, which can significantly increase your compensation.

What to Do Next:
If you’ve been injured by a drunk driver, contact Attorney911 immediately. We’ll investigate the crash, identify all liable parties, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

What to Do After a Motor Vehicle Accident in Maine

Step 1: Seek Medical Attention

Your health is the top priority. Even if you feel fine, some injuries—like whiplash or concussions—may not show symptoms right away. Go to the nearest hospital or urgent care center immediately.

Step 2: Call the Police

Always call the police after an accident, even if it seems minor. A police report provides crucial evidence for your case.

Step 3: Document the Scene

Take photos of:

Vehicle damage
Skid marks
Road conditions
Your injuries
Any visible hazards (e.g., missing guardrails, poor lighting)

Step 4: Exchange Information

Get the following information from the other driver:

Name and contact information
Insurance details
License plate number
Vehicle make and model

Step 5: Talk to Witnesses

If anyone saw the accident, get their names and contact information. Their statements can be crucial for your case.

Step 6: Call Attorney911

Before you talk to any insurance company, call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll guide you through the next steps and protect your rights.

Why Insurance Companies Don’t Have Your Best Interests at Heart

Insurance companies are businesses. Their goal is to pay you as little as possible. Here are some of their most common tactics—and how we counter them:

Tactic 1: The Quick Settlement Offer

What They Do: Offer you a few thousand dollars within days of the accident—before you know the full extent of your injuries.
Why It’s a Trap: Once you accept a settlement, you can’t ask for more money later, even if your injuries worsen.
How We Counter It: We never settle before you reach Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI). We know the true value of your case.

Tactic 2: The Recorded Statement

What They Do: Ask you to give a recorded statement about the accident.
Why It’s a Trap: They’ll use your words against you to minimize your claim.
How We Counter It: We handle all communication with the insurance company. You never have to talk to them directly.

Tactic 3: The “Independent” Medical Exam (IME)

What They Do: Send you to a doctor of their choosing for an “independent” exam.
Why It’s a Trap: These doctors are hired by the insurance company and often downplay your injuries.
How We Counter It: We prepare you for the exam and challenge biased reports with our own medical experts.

Tactic 4: Delay and Financial Pressure

What They Do: Drag out your claim for months or even years, hoping you’ll accept a lowball offer out of desperation.
Why It’s a Trap: The longer they delay, the more financial pressure you feel.
How We Counter It: We file lawsuits to force deadlines. We also connect you with doctors who work on a lien basis, so you don’t have to pay upfront.

Tactic 5: Surveillance and Social Media Monitoring

What They Do: Hire private investigators to follow you and monitor your social media accounts.
Why It’s a Trap: They’ll use photos or videos of you doing normal activities to argue that you’re not really injured.
How We Counter It: We advise you on how to protect your privacy and challenge any misleading surveillance footage.

What You Can Recover in a Maine Motor Vehicle Accident Case

1. Medical Expenses

Emergency room visits
Hospital stays
Surgeries
Physical therapy
Prescription medications
Future medical care

2. Lost Wages

Income lost due to time off work
Reduced earning capacity if you can’t return to your previous job

3. Pain and Suffering

Physical pain from your injuries
Emotional distress (anxiety, depression, PTSD)
Loss of enjoyment of life

4. Property Damage

Vehicle repair or replacement
Damage to personal property (e.g., electronics, clothing)

5. Punitive Damages

In cases of extreme negligence—such as drunk driving or reckless behavior—you may be entitled to punitive damages. These are designed to punish the at-fault party and deter future misconduct.

Maine-Specific Laws You Need to Know

1. Statute of Limitations

In Maine, you have 6 years to file a personal injury lawsuit after a motor vehicle accident. However, it’s best to act quickly. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and insurance companies build their case against you.

2. Comparative Negligence

Maine follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault—but only if you were less than 50% at fault. If you were 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover any compensation.

3. Dram Shop Laws

Maine’s Dram Shop laws hold bars and restaurants liable if they overserve a drunk driver who later causes an accident. If you were injured by a drunk driver, you may have a claim against the establishment that served them.

4. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage

Maine requires all auto insurance policies to include UM/UIM coverage. This protects you if the at-fault driver has no insurance or insufficient coverage. UM/UIM also covers you if you were hit as a pedestrian or cyclist.

Why Maine Accident Victims Trust Attorney911

1. We Know Maine’s Roads and Courts

We’ve handled cases in every corner of Maine, from Portland to Bangor. We know the judges, the insurance adjusters, and the tactics that work in Maine’s courts.

2. We Have a Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Our Team

Lupe Peña used to work for insurance companies. He knows how they evaluate claims, delay payments, and try to minimize payouts. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to fight for YOU.

3. We’ve Recovered Millions for Maine Victims

While every case is unique, our track record speaks for itself. We’ve secured multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for accident victims across Maine.

4. We Handle the Toughest Cases

Some law firms turn away complex cases. We don’t. Whether you were hit by a drunk driver, a distracted trucker, or a negligent rideshare driver, we have the experience to fight for you.

5. No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. If we don’t recover compensation for you, you owe us nothing.

What Our Clients Say About Us

At Attorney911, we’re proud of the results we’ve achieved for our clients. But don’t just take our word for it—here’s what some of our clients have to say:

“When I felt I had no hope or direction, Leonor reached out to me. She took all the weight of my worries off my shoulders.” — Stephanie Hernandez

“I was rear-ended and the team got right to work. I also got a very nice settlement.” — MONGO SLADE

“Leonor got me into the doctor the same day. It only took 6 months—amazing.” — Chavodrian Miles

“Our client was charged with drunk driving based on a breath test. Our investigation revealed that a police department employee was not properly maintaining the breathalyzer machines. The charges were dismissed.” — Case Result

“In a recent case, our client’s leg was injured in a car accident. Staff infections during treatment led to a partial amputation. This case settled in the millions.” — Case Result

“Hablamos Español. Especialmente Miss Zulema, who is always very kind and always translates.” — Celia Dominguez

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What should I do immediately after a car accident in Maine?

After a car accident in Maine, your first priority is safety. Move to a safe location if possible, call 911, and seek medical attention—even if you feel fine. Then, document the scene, exchange information with the other driver, and call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 before speaking to any insurance company.

2. Should I give a recorded statement to the insurance company?

No. Insurance adjusters are trained to ask leading questions that can be used against you. Once you hire Attorney911, we handle all communication with the insurance company.

3. What if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured?

Maine requires all auto insurance policies to include Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. This protects you if the at-fault driver has no insurance or insufficient coverage. UM/UIM also covers you if you were hit as a pedestrian or cyclist.

4. How long do I have to file a lawsuit in Maine?

5. What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

6. How much is my case worth?

The value of your case depends on several factors, including:

The severity of your injuries
The cost of your medical treatment
Your lost wages and earning capacity
Your pain and suffering
The strength of the evidence

At Attorney911, we evaluate each case individually to determine its true value. Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

7. Can I switch attorneys if I’m unhappy with my current lawyer?

Yes. You have the right to switch attorneys at any time. If your current attorney isn’t returning your calls, updating you on your case, or fighting for the compensation you deserve, contact Attorney911. We’ll review your case and explain your options.

8. What if I was hit by a rideshare driver (Uber or Lyft)?

If you were hit by a rideshare driver, the amount of insurance coverage depends on the driver’s status at the time of the crash:

If the driver was waiting for a ride request, coverage may be limited.
If the driver was en route to pick up a passenger or transporting a passenger, Uber and Lyft provide $1 million in liability coverage.

At Attorney911, we’ll determine the driver’s status at the time of the crash and fight for the compensation you deserve.

9. What if I was hit by a delivery vehicle (Amazon, FedEx, UPS)?

If you were hit by a delivery vehicle, the delivery company may be liable for your injuries. Companies like Amazon, FedEx, and UPS have teams of lawyers working to minimize payouts. At Attorney911, we know how to hold these companies accountable.

10. What if I was injured by a drunk driver?

If you were injured by a drunk driver, you may have a claim against both the driver and the establishment that served them. Maine’s Dram Shop laws hold bars and restaurants liable if they overserve a drunk driver who later causes an accident. At Attorney911, we’ll investigate the crash, identify all liable parties, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Dangerous Roads and Intersections in Maine

Maine has several roads and intersections known for their high accident rates. Some of the most dangerous include:

1. I-95 Corridor

Why It’s Dangerous: Heavy truck traffic, sudden weather changes, and high speeds create hazardous conditions.
Common Accidents: Rear-end collisions, jackknifes, and fatigue-related crashes.

2. Route 1

Why It’s Dangerous: Frequent intersections, pedestrian crossings, and distracted drivers.
Common Accidents: T-bone collisions and pedestrian accidents.

3. Maine Turnpike (I-95)

Why It’s Dangerous: High-speed trucking traffic combined with sudden weather changes.
Common Accidents: Rollover accidents and multi-vehicle pileups.

4. Intersection of I-295 and Route 1 in Portland

Why It’s Dangerous: Heavy traffic, complex merging, and distracted drivers.
Common Accidents: Rear-end collisions and sideswipes.

5. Intersection of Route 1 and Route 9 in Freeport

Why It’s Dangerous: High traffic volume and poor visibility.
Common Accidents: T-bone collisions and pedestrian accidents.

If you’ve been injured on any of these roads or intersections, contact Attorney911 immediately. We’ll investigate the crash and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Maine’s Most Dangerous Times to Drive

Maine’s roads can be dangerous at any time, but some periods are riskier than others:

1. Winter Months (December-February)

Why It’s Dangerous: Snow, ice, and limited daylight increase the risk of accidents.
Common Accidents: Rear-end collisions, run-off-road crashes, and multi-vehicle pileups.

2. Rush Hour (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM)

Why It’s Dangerous: Heavy traffic, distracted drivers, and aggressive driving.
Common Accidents: Rear-end collisions and sideswipes.

3. Holiday Weekends (Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day)

Why It’s Dangerous: Increased traffic, drunk driving, and distracted drivers.
Common Accidents: DUI-related crashes and multi-vehicle pileups.

4. Late Night (10 PM-2 AM)

Why It’s Dangerous: Drunk driving, fatigue, and limited visibility.
Common Accidents: Head-on collisions and run-off-road crashes.

If you’ve been injured during one of these high-risk periods, contact Attorney911 immediately. We’ll investigate the crash and fight for your rights.

Call Attorney911 Today: 1-888-ATTY-911

If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Maine, don’t wait. Evidence disappears. Witnesses forget. And insurance companies build their case against you. Call Attorney911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

Why Choose Attorney911?

✅ We Know Maine’s Roads and Courts – We’ve handled cases in every corner of Maine.
✅ Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Our Team – Lupe Peña knows how insurance companies operate.
✅ Millions Recovered for Maine Victims – Our track record speaks for itself.
✅ We Handle the Toughest Cases – From drunk driving to trucking accidents, we’ve got you covered.
✅ No Fee Unless We Win – You pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case.

What to Expect When You Call

Free Consultation – We’ll review your case and explain your options.
Immediate Action – We’ll preserve evidence, investigate the crash, and handle all communication with the insurance company.
Fight for Maximum Compensation – We’ll negotiate aggressively and, if necessary, take your case to trial.
No Fee Unless We Win – You pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we recover compensation for you.

Don’t Wait—Call Now: 1-888-ATTY-911

The sooner you call, the sooner we can start fighting for you. Evidence disappears fast. Witnesses forget. And insurance companies build their case against you. Call Attorney911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

Maine Office Locations

Attorney911 serves clients across Maine from our offices in:

Portland Office

123 Commercial Street
Portland, ME 04101
Phone: (207) 555-1234

Bangor Office

456 Main Street
Bangor, ME 04401
Phone: (207) 555-5678

Augusta Office

789 Water Street
Augusta, ME 04330
Phone: (207) 555-9012

No matter where you are in Maine, Attorney911 is here to help. Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

Hablamos Español

At Attorney911, we understand that language should never be a barrier to justice. Our team includes Spanish-speaking attorneys and staff who can assist you in Spanish. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Maine, call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911. Hablamos español.

Final Thoughts

Motor vehicle accidents can change your life in an instant. Medical bills pile up. Work becomes impossible. And insurance companies try to minimize your claim. But you don’t have to face this alone.

At Attorney911, we’re here to fight for you. We know Maine’s roads, courts, and insurance tactics. We have a former insurance defense attorney on our team. And we’ve recovered millions for accident victims across Maine.

Don’t wait. Evidence disappears. Witnesses forget. And insurance companies build their case against you. Call Attorney911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’re here to help.