Portland, Maine Bicycle Accident Attorneys
The law firm committed to helping injured cyclists
As roads become increasingly crowded with drivers, truckers, and bikers, it's essential to recognize that cyclists also have a right to the road. The growing presence of bike lanes in Portland and communities across Maine further speaks to this fact. However, as bicycles and larger vehicles come in closer contact, cyclists are exposed to the potential risk of severe accidents.
When bicyclists are involved in accidents, the injuries are often life-threatening. They lack the outer framing larger vehicles like cars and trucks have to protect the passengers inside. Due to this, even low-impact accidents can cause a cyclist to suffer life-threatening injuries.
At Romanow Law Group, we understand the stakes are high after a bicycle accident. You are entitled to your share of Maine’s roads and deserve to be protected when your rights and your future are on the line. Let our law firm support you through your case. Contact us today to speak with an experienced Portland, Maine bicycle accident lawyer.
“Highly recommend this law group. Worked with me to get my settlement in a timely manner. Very professional.” – David J., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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FAQ About Bicycle Accidents
- What are common types of bicycle accidents?
- What are Maine’s bicycle laws?
- How much is my Maine bicycle accident worth?
- Who’s responsible for paying for my Maine bicycle accident?
- Who decides who’s at fault in a bicycle crash?
- Can I be compensated if I’m partially at fault for causing my bicycle accident?
- Should I accept a settlement for my bicycle accident claim?
- Can I sue the driver who caused my Maine bicycle accident?
- Why should I hire a Maine bicycle accident lawyer?
What are common types of bicycle accidents?
Some cyclists may hop on their bikes as their only means of transportation, while others may go to get some fresh air or on a joy ride. Whatever the case may be, once you start to pedal, the last thing on your mind is a crash. But bicycle accidents are becoming far too common. Our law firm handles cases involving all types of bicycle accidents.
One common type of bicycle accident is known as "dooring." This occurs when a driver or passenger opens a car door directly into the path of an oncoming cyclist. The cyclist either hits the door or swerves into traffic and hits another vehicle. Dooring accidents can happen unexpectedly and result in serious injuries, as cyclists often have limited time to react and avoid the impact.
Another type of bicycle accident involves left or right hooks. A left hook occurs when a driver makes a left turn across the path of an oncoming cyclist, causing a collision. Similarly, a right hook happens when a vehicle passes a cyclist on the left and then makes a right turn without giving the cyclist enough space or time to react.
Left and right cross accidents occur when a vehicle traveling in the opposite direction of a cyclist fails to yield the right of way, resulting in a collision. These accidents commonly occur at intersections when drivers fail to notice or misjudge the speed of an approaching cyclist.
Sideswipe accidents happen when a vehicle strikes a cyclist from the side, often due to unsafe passing or improper lane changes. These accidents can be particularly dangerous when cyclists are forced into traffic or lose control as a result of the impact.
When a car gets too close to a cyclist, it can cause a forced off-the-road accident. This can be a result of a driver failing to give cyclists sufficient space when passing or intentionally trying to intimidate the cyclist.
Wrong-way accidents involve cyclists being struck by vehicles traveling in the wrong direction. These accidents can occur when a driver enters a one-way street or fails to recognize the correct flow of traffic.
What are Maine’s bicycle laws?
In Maine, some laws and regulations govern bicycle use on the roadways. According to the state of Maine, some key regulations for cyclists to keep in mind include:
- Bicycles must follow the same traffic laws as motor vehicles, including stopping at red lights and stop signs.
- Cyclists are required to ride in the same direction as traffic and as close to the right side of the road as practicable, except when preparing to turn left or when necessary to avoid hazards.
- Cyclists can ride on bike paths and lanes but are not required by the state to do so.
- Cyclists under the age of 16 are required to wear a properly fitted helmet when riding a bicycle on a public roadway.
There are also laws motorists must follow regarding sharing the road with bicycles, some of these laws include:
- Motorists must give at least 3 feet of space when passing cyclists.
- Motorists should be cautious using their horns. Honking their horn unnecessarily could startle a cyclist and cause them to crash. (Title 29A, Chapter 17, Section 1903).
- Motorists should only open doors after checking traffic.
- Motorists must watch for bicyclists as they prepare to make a right turn.
How much is my Maine bicycle accident worth?
The bottom line is you should be financially compensated for all your expenses, no matter how much money they add up to after your accident. And it’s not just short-term expenses that should be included. Even future anticipated expenses should be taken into account. This includes:
- Emergency medical care
- Surgical procedures
- Follow-up doctor’s appointments
- Property damage, including replacing your bicycle
- Replacement income while recovering
- Lost future income due to a permanent disability
Add all these expenses up and your bicycle accident can easily be worth thousands of dollars or significantly more money. So how do you know how much your bicycle crash is worth? Talk to a Maine bicycle accident lawyer who can review your case and provide an accurate estimate.
Who’s responsible for paying for my Maine bicycle accident?
After a crash, medical bills, bike repairs, and other expenses can add up fast. If a driver caused your accident, you shouldn't be left paying the price. Maine law allows injured cyclists to pursue compensation from the at-fault party and other sources of insurance.
Depending on the circumstances of your bicycle accident, the following parties may be responsible for covering your accident expenses:
- The at-fault driver’s insurance company – Maine is an “at-fault” state, which means the driver who caused the crash is financially responsible for the resulting damages, legal term for financial losses. Their liability insurance typically pays for your injuries and losses.
- Your own auto insurance (if applicable) – If you own a vehicle and have MedPay (medical payments coverage), you may be able to use it to cover some of your medical bills, even if you were biking at the time of the crash.
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM) – If the driver who hit you doesn’t have enough insurance or leaves the scene, your own UM/UIM policy can kick in to help with costs.
- Health insurance – While not a substitute for a legal claim, your health insurance may cover some or all medical treatments. However, they may seek reimbursement later if you receive a settlement or verdict.
It's critical to understand which insurance policies apply and how to avoid costly mistakes. An experienced Maine bicycle accident lawyer can help identify all available compensation sources and ensure nothing is left on the table.
Who decides who’s at fault in a bicycle crash?
Determining fault in a bicycle accident is a critical step in recovering compensation. Insurance companies often have the first say on the issue, but their decision isn’t always final. In some cases, a judge or jury may ultimately decide who was at fault and responsible for paying for your crash.
Here’s who typically plays a role in deciding fault in a Maine bicycle accident:
- Police officers – If a crash report was filed, the investigating officer may note who they believe was at fault. While not legally binding, this can influence the insurance company’s decision and future legal proceedings.
- Insurance adjusters – After the crash is reported, the driver’s insurance company will investigate and determine fault based on available evidence. Their decision affects whether they accept or deny your claim.
- Attorneys – Your lawyer can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a case to challenge the insurance company’s findings or support your claim.
- Judges and juries – If your case goes to trial, a judge or jury will make the final decision about who was at fault based on the facts presented in court.
Because fault plays such a big role in your ability to recover compensation, it’s essential to have a lawyer on your side who can advocate for your version of events after your bicycle crash.
Can I be compensated if I’m partially at fault for causing my bicycle accident?
Yes, you may still be eligible for compensation even if you were partially at fault for causing your bike crash. Maine follows a modified comparative negligence system, which allows injured cyclists to recover compensation as long as they are not more than 50% responsible for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced in proportion to your share of fault.
For example, if you were found to be 20 percent at fault because you didn’t use a bike light at night, and your accident expenses add up to $100,000, your award would be reduced by 20 percent. That means you would still recover $80,000. But if you were found 51 percent or more at fault, you would not be eligible to recover any compensation under Maine law.
Because even small findings of fault can significantly impact your claim, it’s important to have a lawyer who can push back against unfair blame. The insurance company may try to pin the crash on you to reduce their payout. A skilled bicycle accident attorney will know how to investigate the crash, highlight the driver’s negligence and protect your right to full compensation.
Should I accept a settlement for my bicycle accident claim?
You should never accept a settlement offer without asking an attorney to carefully review it. Insurance companies often make low initial offers, hoping you’ll accept before understanding the full extent of your injuries and losses. If you agree to accept a settlement too early, you may give up your right to additional compensation, even if complications arise later.
Some offers may seem reasonable at first glance but fail to account for long-term consequences like lost future income, ongoing therapy, or permanent disability. Once you sign a settlement agreement, you generally can’t go back and ask for more money, even if your condition worsens.
That’s why it’s so important to speak with a Maine bicycle accident lawyer before signing anything. A lawyer can review any offers, estimate the true value of your claim and negotiate for a fair settlement that fully compensates you for your current and future losses.
Can I sue the driver who caused my Maine bicycle accident?
Yes, you can sue the driver who caused your bicycle accident in Maine. If the driver was negligent – meaning they acted carelessly or recklessly and caused your injuries – you have the legal right to pursue a lawsuit against them for damages (financial losses). This legal action can help you recover money for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses related to the crash.
Sometimes, filing a lawsuit is necessary when the driver’s insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement. Other times, it’s about holding the driver accountable when their actions were especially dangerous or egregious. For example, if the driver was speeding, texting, or driving under the influence of alcohol, a lawsuit might be your best path forward for getting the compensation you rightfully deserve.
Keep in mind that Maine has strict deadlines for filing injury lawsuits – generally six years from the date of your bicycle accident. However, it's always best to consult a lawyer well before that deadline to preserve evidence, protect your rights, and maximize your chances of a successful outcome. The longer you wait to take legal action, the harder it sometimes gets to win your case.
Why should I hire a Maine bicycle accident lawyer?
After a bicycle accident, you may feel overwhelmed trying to juggle medical care, insurance paperwork, and financial uncertainty. Having an experienced attorney in your corner can make all the difference. A skilled lawyer can guide you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Here’s how a Maine bicycle accident attorney can help:
- Investigate your accident – Lawyers gather critical evidence such as traffic camera footage, witness statements, and police reports to build a strong case.
- Calculate your damages – Attorneys help determine the full value of your claim, including medical bills, future care, lost income, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
- Negotiate with insurance companies – Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your payout. A lawyer knows how to counter these tactics and demand fair compensation.
- File lawsuits if needed – If negotiations stall or the insurer denies your claim, your lawyer can file a lawsuit on your behalf.
- Represent you in court – If your case goes to trial, your lawyer can present your case to the judge and jury.
- Protect your rights – An attorney can make sure that you’re not unfairly blamed for the accident and that you meet all legal deadlines.
You don’t have to face this legal process alone. With a dedicated Maine bicycle accident attorney on your side, you can focus on healing while our legal team handles the rest. The right lawyer can fight to hold the at-fault driver accountable and pursue every dollar you’re entitled to for your Maine bicycle accident.
Get the legal support you deserve
A bicycle accident can leave you reeling and unsure of what steps to take next. Many bicycle accidents are caused by the negligent acts of another motorist. An experienced Maine bicycle accident attorney can hold them accountable.
It is important to note legal help is available to you without any upfront costs. At the Romanow Law Group, we pride ourselves in representing our clients on a contingency fee basis. What does that mean for you? It means you don’t have to worry about paying for a lawyer out of pocket. Through a contingency fee agreement, you don’t pay us anything unless we recover compensation for you. You won't owe us a single penny until we win your case.
This approach ensures that our interests are perfectly aligned with yours. We won't stop fighting until the party responsible for your bicycle accident is held accountable for their actions. Don’t hesitate to call or contact us to speak with a Maine bicycle accident attorney focused on winning your case. We’re ready to hear from you.