Our state has witnessed a surge in pedestrian accidents, leaving countless injured pedestrians grappling with serious injuries like broken bones, traumatic brain injury, and even spinal cord injuries. The consequences of these pedestrian crashes extend far beyond the physical injuries, often leading to lost wages, mounting medical expenses, and profound emotional distress.
The causes of these pedestrian accidents in Maine are varied, ranging from distracted driving and speeding to failure to yield at traffic signals and disregard for posted speed limits. Negligent drivers of motor vehicles put Maine pedestrians at risk every day, turning ordinary walks into life-altering events. In the aftermath of such a tragedy, dealing with insurance companies focused on protecting their bottom line can add another layer of stress to an already difficult situation.
This is where McCue Law Firm steps in. Our team of experienced Maine pedestrian accident attorneys is dedicated to protecting pedestrians and helping pedestrian accident victims seek the financial compensation they deserve. We understand Maine law and have extensive experience navigating complex pedestrian accident claims and pedestrian accident cases. From gathering crucial evidence like medical records and police reports to building a strong case against the negligent driver, we handle every aspect of your injury claim.
Maine's breathtaking landscapes and charming towns attract both residents and tourists alike. However, the state's roads can be dangerous for those on foot, with pedestrian accidents becoming increasingly prevalent. These accidents often result in serious injuries, leaving victims struggling with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens. Here are the common causes of pedestrian accidents in Maine:
Maine law aims to protect pedestrians by clearly defining the rights and responsibilities of both walkers and drivers. These are some of the key regulations:
In the aftermath of a pedestrian accident in Maine, determining who is liable for the injuries and damages sustained is crucial. Liability often comes down to establishing negligence on the part of the driver or the pedestrian, which can be a complex process involving various factors.
Under Maine law, both drivers and pedestrians have a duty of care to act reasonably and avoid causing harm to others. When a driver or pedestrian breaches this duty of care through negligent actions, they may be held liable for any resulting injuries or damages.
Common examples of driver negligence that can lead to pedestrian accidents in Maine include:
While drivers often bear the brunt of liability in pedestrian accidents, pedestrians can also be found negligent in certain circumstances, such as:
Maine follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means that both parties' actions are evaluated, and liability is apportioned accordingly. If the pedestrian is found to be more than 50% at fault, they may be barred from recovering any damages. However, if the pedestrian's negligence is 50% or less, they can still recover damages, but the amount will be reduced by their percentage of fault.
Determining liability in pedestrian accident cases often requires a thorough investigation and gathering of evidence, such as:
Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users, and when struck by a motor vehicle, the resulting injuries can be catastrophic. In Maine, pedestrian accidents often lead to severe and life-altering injuries that require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. Some of the most common injuries sustained by pedestrians in these accidents include:
Traumatic brain injuries are a frequent and devastating consequence of pedestrian accidents. These injuries can range from concussions to more severe forms of brain trauma, leading to cognitive impairments, personality changes, and long-term disabilities.
The force of impact in a pedestrian accident can cause damage to the spinal cord, resulting in partial or complete paralysis. Spinal cord injuries often require lifelong medical care and can significantly impact a person's quality of life.
Pedestrians are highly susceptible to broken bones and fractures when struck by a vehicle, particularly in the legs, arms, pelvis, and ribs. These injuries can be excruciatingly painful and may require surgeries, immobilization, and extensive physical therapy.
The blunt force trauma experienced in pedestrian accidents can cause internal injuries, such as organ damage, internal bleeding, and ruptured spleens or livers. These injuries can be life-threatening and may require immediate medical intervention.
Pedestrians often sustain soft tissue injuries, including sprains, strains, and contusions, which can be extremely painful and limit mobility. These injuries may require physical therapy and rehabilitation to regain full function.
In addition to physical injuries, pedestrian accident victims in Maine frequently experience emotional and psychological trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. These invisible injuries can profoundly impact a person's mental well-being and quality of life.
The severity of injuries sustained in a pedestrian accident can vary widely, but even seemingly minor injuries can have long-lasting consequences and require extensive medical care and rehabilitation. That's why it's crucial for injured pedestrians in Maine to seek legal representation from experienced pedestrian accident attorneys who can help them navigate the complex process of seeking fair compensation for their injuries, lost wages, and other damages.
Being involved in a pedestrian accident in Maine can be a traumatic and overwhelming experience. If you or a loved one has been injured, it's crucial to have an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer on your side to protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation.
Pedestrian accident cases can be incredibly complex, involving intricate legal principles, extensive evidence gathering, and proving liability. Maine's personal injury laws and regulations can be challenging to navigate, especially when dealing with severe injuries and mounting medical expenses. An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer understands the nuances of these cases and can guide you through the legal process, ensuring your rights are protected.
Insurance companies often prioritize their financial interests over the well-being of injured pedestrians. They may attempt to minimize the compensation they offer or even deny valid claims altogether. A skilled pedestrian accident lawyer in Maine understands the tactics used by insurance companies and can effectively negotiate on your behalf to secure a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Proving liability and establishing the negligence of the driver responsible for the pedestrian accident is crucial for obtaining appropriate compensation. A pedestrian accident lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation, gathering evidence from the accident scene, reviewing police reports, obtaining medical records, and consulting with expert witnesses if necessary. This evidence is essential in building a strong case and demonstrating the full extent of your injuries and losses.
Attempting to handle a pedestrian accident case on your own can be overwhelming and may result in a lower settlement or even a dismissal of your claim. By partnering with a reputable Maine pedestrian accident lawyer, you can focus on your recovery while your legal team fights tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve.
At McCue Law Firm, our dedicated pedestrian accident attorneys have extensive experience representing injured Maine citizens. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents can take, and we are committed to providing compassionate and aggressive legal representation to help our clients rebuild their lives.
Being involved in a pedestrian accident can be a traumatic and overwhelming experience. However, the actions you take immediately after the accident can significantly impact your ability to seek justice and obtain fair compensation for your injuries. Here are some crucial steps to take following a pedestrian accident in Maine:
If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic. Call emergency services immediately, as prompt medical attention can be critical. If you are able, collect the driver's contact information, insurance details, and license plate number. Also, try to gather the names and contact information of any witnesses present at the scene.
Evidence is crucial in pedestrian accident cases. If it is safe to do so, take photographs or videos of the accident scene, including the position of vehicles, any skid marks, traffic signals, and your visible injuries. Make notes about the weather conditions, lighting, and any other relevant details you can recall.
Even if you believe your injuries are minor, it is essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent. Following your doctor's recommendations for treatment and rehabilitation is crucial for your recovery and can also help document the extent of your injuries.
Consulting with an experienced pedestrian accident attorney in Maine should be a top priority after seeking medical care. An attorney can help protect your rights, deal with insurance companies on your behalf, and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and other damages.
In Maine, pedestrian accident victims who have sustained serious injuries due to the negligence of another driver have the right to seek financial compensation through a personal injury claim. The types of damages available can significantly impact the lives of injured pedestrians and their families. Here's a breakdown of the various damages you may be entitled to:
The amount of compensation awarded to pedestrian accident victims in Maine can vary significantly depending on several factors. Some of the key elements that can influence the potential compensation include:
If negotiations with the insurance company fail to yield a fair settlement for a pedestrian accident in Maine, pursuing a lawsuit may be necessary to obtain the compensation you deserve. The legal process involves several stages:
The first step is filing a complaint with the court, which outlines the details of the accident, the injuries sustained, and the damages being sought. This formally initiates the legal proceedings against the negligent driver and their insurance company.
During the discovery phase, both parties exchange relevant information and evidence related to the case. This may include interrogatories (written questions), depositions (oral testimonies), and the exchange of documents such as medical records, police reports, and witness statements.
Even after a lawsuit has been filed, there is still an opportunity for the parties to negotiate a settlement out of court. Experienced pedestrian accident attorneys in Maine will evaluate any settlement offers and advise their clients on the best course of action, considering the strength of the case and the potential for a higher award at trial.
If a reasonable settlement cannot be reached, the case will proceed to trial. During the trial, both sides will present their evidence and arguments before a judge and jury. The jury will then deliberate and deliver a verdict, determining liability and, if the defendant is found liable, the amount of damages to be awarded to the pedestrian accident victim.
It's important to note that the legal process can be complex and time-consuming, particularly if the case goes to trial. Having an experienced pedestrian accident attorney from a reputable firm like McCue Law Firm can make a significant difference in navigating the legal system effectively and maximizing the chances of a favorable outcome.
The statute of limitations on pedestrian accident cases in Maine is 6 years. Although this may seem like a large window to file a pedestrian accident claim, it is crucial to file your claim in a timely manner in order to strengthen your case and maximize your compensation.
Can a Maine pedestrian be partially at fault and still receive compensation after being injured by a negligent driver?
Absolutely. Maine follows a "comparative negligence" rule, meaning that even if a pedestrian is found to be partially responsible for the accident, they may still be entitled to compensation. However, the compensation awarded will be reduced by their percentage of fault. For instance, if a pedestrian is found 20% at fault for an accident resulting in $10,000 in damages, their award would be reduced by $2,000.
What if the driver who hit me in Maine doesn't have insurance or has insufficient coverage?
In such cases, your own auto insurance policy may provide coverage through uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) protection. This coverage can help cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the pedestrian accident. It's crucial to review your policy or consult with a Maine pedestrian accident attorney to understand the extent of your UM/UIM coverage.
Are there specific traffic laws in Maine that protect pedestrians, and how do they affect my pedestrian accident case?
Yes, Maine has several laws designed to protect pedestrians. These laws include requiring drivers to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, prohibiting passing a vehicle stopped for a pedestrian, and mandating drivers to exercise due care to avoid colliding with pedestrians. Understanding these laws is crucial in establishing a driver's negligence and strengthening your pedestrian accident claim. An experienced Maine pedestrian accident attorney can analyze how these laws apply to your specific case.
What if the pedestrian accident resulted in a fatality in Maine? Can a family member file a wrongful death lawsuit?
Yes, in the unfortunate event of a pedestrian fatality, a family member may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit in Maine. This type of lawsuit seeks to compensate the deceased's family for their loss, including funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship. It's essential to consult with a Maine pedestrian accident attorney to understand the complex legal requirements and procedures involved in filing a wrongful death claim.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a Maine pedestrian accident, don't hesitate to contact McCue Law Firm. Our dedicated legal team has the knowledge and expertise to navigate the complexities of pedestrian accident claims and maximize your chances of securing full compensation for your injuries and losses. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Contact McCue Law Firm today by calling (207) 862-5290 for a free consultation and let us fight for your rights.
