Portland, Maine Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Our attorneys help injured riders fight for the compensation they deserve
Motorcycle accidents in Maine are often not ordinary traffic incidents. They can have life-changing consequences. Because motorcycles are smaller than other vehicles on the road, bikers can get seriously injured when they’re hit by a car, truck, or another type of vehicle.
At Romanow Law Group, our Portland, Maine motorcycle accident attorneys recognize the challenges faced by injured motorcyclists. We understand the physical and emotional pain that follows such an event. We are here to offer our support and legal expertise. As passionate advocates for motorcycle riders' rights in Maine, we are committed to seeking justice and fighting for the compensation you deserve.
“Romanow Law Group is amazing! They were incredibly supportive after my car accident, handling my case with expertise and compassion. I got a great settlement thanks to their hard work. Highly recommended!” – Amanda M., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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Whether you were involved in a collision with another vehicle on Route 1, a hazardous road condition caused your accident on I-95, or you were a victim of negligence or reckless driving on another road or highway, we’re on your side. Our dedicated legal team has a deep understanding of the factors involved in these complex cases. We are ready to build a strong case and pursue the maximum compensation for you.
Maine motorcycle accidents by the numbers
- Roughly 500 motorcycle accidents per year in Maine.
- 23 motorcycle accident fatalities per year on average.
- Riders 50 to 59 years old and 30 to 39 years old are most likely to be involved in a motorcycle crash.
- June, July, and August consistently have the most motorcycle crashes each year.
Sources: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Maine Department of Transportation.
FAQs about motorcycle accident claims in Maine
- What should I do after a motorcycle crash in Maine?
- What are the common types of motorcycle crashes in Maine?
- What are common causes of motorcycle accidents?
- What are common motorcycle accident injuries?
- What motorcycle accident expenses can I be compensated for?
- How is compensation determined for motorcycle crashes in Maine?
- How is fault determined for a motorcycle accident in Maine?
- Can I receive compensation if I’m partially at fault for causing my Maine motorcycle crash?
- What should I do if my motorcycle claim is denied?
- Who can I sue after my Maine motorcycle accident?
- What are Maine’s motorcycle laws?
- Why should I hire a Maine motorcycle accident lawyer?
What should I do after a motorcycle crash in Maine?
After experiencing a motorcycle crash, you may feel uncertain about what to do next. The moments following the accident can be disorienting and overwhelming. But you need to act fast to protect your health and your rights. Take the following steps:
- Seek medical attention: Prioritize your health and safety by seeking immediate medical attention. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, you should still get checked out by a medical professional at the scene. Some injuries may not have symptoms right away. Medical evaluation is the only way to learn the full extent of your injuries. You should also continue to get medical attention after the accident to monitor your recovery progress and have the resources to address any complications that may arise.
- Contact law enforcement: Call the police to report the accident. They will arrive at the scene, assess the situation, and create an official accident report. This report can serve as valuable evidence when seeking compensation for your damages. This report is officially called a State of Maine Crash Report. Make sure you get a copy of your accident report. If you’re not sure how to do so, our Maine law firm can help.
- Exchange information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver involved. Be sure to get their name, phone number, address, license plate number, and insurance details.
- Don’t discuss the accident: Once you have exchanged information with the other driver, don’t say anything else to them or others at the crash site. Anything you say could later be used against you.
- Avoid discussing fault: While it's important to comply with the police and provide basic information, it's crucial to avoid admitting fault or making detailed statements about the accident. Anything you say can potentially be used against you later during the claims process.
- Gather evidence: If you are physically able to do so, document the accident scene by taking photos or videos. Capture details such as vehicle positions, road conditions, skid marks, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. Also, collect contact information from any witnesses who saw the accident occur.
- Notify your insurance company: Report your accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with accurate details of the crash and follow their instructions for filing a claim. Remember to stick to the facts and avoid speculating or assigning blame.
- Talk to a motorcycle accident attorney: A lawyer can protect your rights and help you navigate your way through the complex legal process. We can provide guidance, investigate your accident, and fight for the money you deserve. If you want assistance talking to your insurance company, consider consulting a lawyer before doing so. We can speak to them on your behalf.
What are the common types of motorcycle crashes in Maine?
No matter the type of motorcycle accident you were involved in, you deserve to be compensated for your pain and suffering. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, trust our experienced team to fight for your rights. Our law firm handles the following types of motorcycle accidents:
- Rear-end accident
- Head-on collisions
- T-bone accidents
- Intersection accidents
- Left-turn accidents
- Speeding
- Drunk driving accidents
- Fatal motorcycle accidents
- Distracted driving
- Red light running
- Hit-and-runs
- Multi-vehicle pileups
- Defective parts
- Dooring accidents
What are common causes of motorcycle accidents?
In Maine, several factors contribute to motorcycle accidents on the roads. Some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents are:
- Distracted Driving: When motorists divert their attention from the road, whether by using their phones, eating, or engaging in other activities, they can miss a rider on the road and cause a crash.
- Failure to Yield: Many motorcycle accidents occur when other vehicles fail to yield the right of way to motorcyclists. These accidents often happen at intersections when drivers make left turns without properly checking for oncoming motorcycles.
- Lane Changes and Merging: Motorcycle accidents frequently happen when vehicles change lanes or merge without adequately checking blind spots. Motorcycles are smaller than cars, making them more challenging to spot, especially in heavy traffic.
- Speeding: Excessive speed is a significant contributing factor to motorcycle accidents. When drivers exceed the speed limit, they reduce their reaction time and increase the severity of collisions with motorcycles.
- Impaired Driving: Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a dangerous behavior that endangers all road users, including motorcyclists. Impaired drivers have impaired judgment, reduced coordination, and decreased reaction time, making them more likely to cause accidents.
- Road Hazards: Motorcycles are more susceptible to road hazards than other vehicles. Uneven surfaces, potholes, loose gravel, or debris on the road pose greater risks for motorcyclists, leading to loss of control and accidents.
- Defective Parts: Faulty brakes, tires, steering components, or other defective parts can lead to sudden malfunctions, loss of control, or unexpected accidents.
What are common motorcycle accident injuries?
Motorcycle accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, often of a more severe nature compared to other types of accidents. The vulnerability of motorcyclists on the road leaves them at a high risk of significant injuries, even in relatively minor collisions. Some of the most common injuries a rider can sustain from a motorcycle accident include:
- Concussions and other traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Road rash
- Internal injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Amputations
- Biker's arm and other nerve damage
What motorcycle accident expenses can I be compensated for?
In a motorcycle accident, victims may be entitled to pursue various types of damages (legal term for financial compensation) for their losses. Common types of damages you may be able to recover money for after a motorcycle accident include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Rehabilitation and therapy
- Loss of earning capacity
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Disfigurement and scarring
- Wrongful death damages (in fatal motorcycle accidents)
Each case is unique, and the specific damages that can be pursued will depend on the circumstances of the accident, such as the extent of the injuries sustained. An experienced attorney will account for all relevant damages to ensure the compensation amount they strive for covers all your losses.
How is compensation determined for motorcycle crashes in Maine?
When determining the average settlement for motorcycle accident claims, it's essential to note that there is no set figure, as each case is unique and settlement amounts can vary greatly.
Several key factors are considered when calculating a settlement in a motorcycle accident claim. These factors include:
- Fault: The determination of fault plays a crucial role in assessing the settlement amount.
- Injury Severity: The severity of your injuries and their impact on your life, including medical expenses, ongoing treatment, and rehabilitation, will be taken into account. The more severe and long-lasting the injuries, the higher the potential settlement.
- Insurance Coverage: The insurance coverage available, both for your motorcycle insurance and the insurance of the at-fault party, can affect the settlement amount.
- Choice of Lawyer: The skills and experience of your attorney also play a crucial role in negotiating a favorable settlement. The right attorney will fight for your rights and maximize the settlement amount on your behalf, while communicating with you and taking your input and worries into consideration.
How is fault determined for a motorcycle accident in Maine?
Fault in a motorcycle accident is often decided by looking closely at the actions of every driver involved in the collision. Police reports often play a big role since officers document the scene and record their observations. Witness statements and physical evidence, like skid marks or vehicle damage, also help build the picture of what happened.
But they don’t decide who is at fault. Ultimately, it’s often insurance companies (in cases involving injury claims) and juries in courts (if a motorcycle accident lawsuit is filed) who use this information to assign percentages of fault to each vehicle operator. And the higher the percentage of fault assigned to you, the less money you will receive for your accident.
A Maine motorcycle accident lawyer can challenge unfair fault assignments in several ways, including gathering more evidence, consulting with experts, and negotiating aggressively with insurance companies on your behalf. The less blame you carry, the more compensation you can recover to pay for your accident expenses.
Can I receive compensation if I’m partially at fault for causing my Maine motorcycle crash?
Yes, you can still receive compensation if you were partially at fault for your motorcycle accident in Maine. This is because Maine follows a comparative negligence system. This means if you are found partially responsible for your crash, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, if you are more than 50 percent at fault, you will not receive any compensation.
For example, if your car accident expenses add up $100,000 and you are found to be 20 percent at fault, your recovery would be reduced by 20 percent to $80,000. That means the remaining $20,000 would be your responsibility. The more fault that is assigned to you, the less money you can collect. That is why minimizing your share of responsibility is so important in these cases.
Insurance companies often try to push more blame onto motorcyclists. And they sometimes get away with it due to the bias some people have against motorcyclists. Some people think all motorcyclists are dangerous risk-takers. We know the truth – that most motorcyclists follow the rules of the road. Our job is to challenge any unfair assumptions and percentages of blame so you can get the money you rightfully deserve.
What should I do if my motorcycle claim is denied?
If your motorcycle injury accident claim is denied, it does not mean the fight is over. Insurance companies often wrongly deny claims simply to save money. You still have options and can push back to pursue the compensation you deserve. Acting quickly can make a big difference in the outcome. Options often include:
- Review the denial letter carefully to understand the insurer’s stated reason for rejecting your claim.
- Gather all medical records, bills, and accident reports to prove your injuries and losses.
- Collect photos, videos, and witness statements that support your version of the crash.
- Request a copy of the police report if you do not already have one, since it may contain important details.
- File an appeal with your insurance company if you believe the denial was unfair.
- Contact an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer who can challenge the insurer’s decision and present stronger evidence.
A denied claim can feel discouraging, but it does not mean you are out of options. Insurance companies often count on riders giving up after an initial rejection. With the right legal help, you can fight back and hold the insurer accountable. A Maine motorcycle accident lawyer can build a strong appeal and, if necessary, take your case to court.
Who can I sue after my Maine motorcycle accident?
Motorcycle accidents often involve more than just the other driver. Several parties may share legal responsibility depending on the circumstances of your crash. Identifying all at-fault parties is important because it increases your ability to recover full compensation. A lawyer can help determine who should be included in your lawsuit or lawsuits.
- Negligent drivers who caused the crash by speeding, texting, driving drunk, or failing to yield.
- Trucking companies or delivery businesses, if their employee driver is responsible for the collision.
- Vehicle or parts manufacturers, if a defect, such as brake failure, played a role in the accident.
- Government agencies, if dangerous road conditions, such as poor signage or unrepaired potholes, contributed to your motorcycle wreck.
- Bars, restaurants, or businesses that overserved alcohol to a driver who later caused your motorcycle accident.
By holding every responsible party accountable, you can strengthen your case and improve your ability to obtain the compensation you deserve. These legal claims can be complex because each party may deny responsibility or point the finger at someone else, especially motorcyclists. A motorcycle accident lawyer can sort through the details, build a strong case, and fight for every dollar you deserve.
What are Maine’s motorcycle laws?
Any Maine resident with a valid motorcycle permit or license is allowed to ride a motorcycle. Non-residents can also ride in Maine if they have a motorcycle license from their state or country of residence. Additionally, individuals who are at least 16 years old and possess a permit from another state or country are permitted to ride on Maine roads.
Currently, the State of Maine has specific requirements for helmet usage, including:
- Operators under 18 years old, individuals operating with a learner's motorcycle permit, or those who have completed a driving test within the previous 12 months are required to wear helmets while riding. Additionally, helmets are mandatory for operators of off-road motorcycles under 15 years old.
- Passengers riding on a motorcycle or in an attached sidecar who are under 15 years old are also required to wear helmets.
While wearing a helmet is required for certain riders, it's important to note that Maine does not legally mandate the use of eye and face protection or other protective riding gear. Helmets and other safety gear can prevent some injuries, but you still have a case whether you were wearing a helmet or not.
Why should I hire a Maine motorcycle accident lawyer?
After a motorcycle crash, dealing with the insurance company and medical bills on your own can feel overwhelming. A lawyer can take the pressure off you and focus on building a strong case while you recover from your injuries. Your attorney can help you in many different ways:
- Investigate your accident and collect crucial evidence such as police reports, medical records, and witness statements.
- Explain how Maine’s motorcycle laws apply to your case.
- Handle all communication with insurance companies to protect you from unfair tactics.
- Calculate the full value of your claim, including future medical care and lost wages.
- Consult with accident reconstruction experts to prove what really happened.
- Negotiate aggressively with insurance companies for a fair settlement.
- File a motorcycle accident lawsuit on your behalf if necessary.
- Fight for your rights in court if your case goes to trial.
With a dedicated lawyer on your side, you don’t have to face the legal system or the insurance companies alone. You can focus on healing while knowing someone is fighting for your best interests. Having an experienced lawyer on your team gives you the strongest chance to secure justice and fair compensation.
Contact a Maine motorcycle accident attorney today
If you or someone you love has been hurt in a motorcycle accident, you understand that there are challenges that lie ahead. Seeking fair compensation and navigating the legal process can be an overwhelming journey. That's where our dedicated legal team comes in.
We know that motorcycle accidents are often complicated and can have an intense impact on your life. We possess an in-depth knowledge of Maine's motorcycle laws and regulations and are well-equipped to handle the most complex motorcycle accident cases that come our way. Our commitment is to provide legal representation tailored to your specific needs.
At Romanow Law Group, we believe in going the extra mile for our clients. We pride ourselves on taking the time to listen to your story and customize our approach accordingly. Our experienced attorneys are passionate about protecting your rights. Learn more and contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a Maine motorcycle accident lawyer you can count on in a crisis.