Car accidents happen every day across Maine, from congested summer highways to hazardous winter roads. If you’ve been injured, working with a trusted car accident lawyer in Maine can make a critical difference in your recovery and your financial future. You shouldn’t have to navigate medical bills, lost income, and insurance companies alone.
At Mann Law, we help individuals and families move forward after serious accidents. With decades of combined experience and a statewide presence, our Maine personal injury lawyers are committed to protecting your rights and helping you recover what you deserve.
Maine is a fault-based state, meaning the at-fault driver is responsible for your damages: After a crash, you can file a claim against the responsible driver’s insurance, use your own coverage, or pursue a personal injury lawsuit if necessary.
Maine’s modified comparative negligence rule allows you to recover compensation even if you share some fault: As long as you are less than 50% responsible for the accident, you can still pursue damages, though your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Distracted driving, speeding, impairment, and seasonal road hazards are leading causes of Maine car accidents: Identifying the cause of the crash is critical to establishing liability and building a strong personal injury claim.
Compensation after a car accident can extend well beyond medical bills: Maine law allows injured victims to pursue lost wages, reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, property damage, loss of enjoyment of life, and wrongful death damages.
Hiring a car accident lawyer early strengthens your case and protects your rights: An attorney can preserve evidence, handle insurance negotiations, and ensure you do not settle for less than your claim is worth before Maine’s six-year statute of limitations runs out.
Why Car Accident Victims Throughout Maine Choose Mann Law
We Handle Every Stage of Your Case: From the first insurance call to final settlement or trial, Mann Law manages all communications, evidence gathering, and negotiations so you can focus on recovery.
We Know Maine Roads and How Crashes Happen Here: Whether your accident occurred on the Maine Turnpike, I-295, Route 1, or a local road in Portland, Scarborough, or Bangor, our attorneys understand local traffic patterns and liability issues.
We Counter Insurance Company Lowball Offers: Insurers routinely undervalue Maine car accident claims. Mann Law builds documented, evidence-backed cases that support the compensation you actually need.
Free Consultation and Contingency Fees: Your initial consultation is completely free, and you owe us nothing unless we recover compensation for you. There is no financial risk in reaching out.
Injured in a Maine car accident? You should not have to face insurance companies, medical bills, and lost income on your own. Let Mann Law's experienced attorneys review your case for free and fight for every dollar you deserve.Schedule a Free Consultation
What Should You Do After a Maine Car Accident?
The moments after a crash can feel overwhelming, but taking the right steps early can protect your health and your legal claim. We suggest you:
Stay at the scene if it is safe and prioritize safety,
Call law enforcement and emergency responders,
Exchange information with all involved parties,
Document the scene with photos and witness statements,
Seek medical attention immediately, and
Avoid discussing fault before speaking with an attorney.
These steps help preserve evidence and create a clear record of what happened. Speaking with a Maine car accident attorney early ensures you protect your rights from the start.
Maine No-Fault / At-Fault System Explained
Maine follows a fault-based system, meaning the at-fault driver is responsible for damages. This allows injured individuals to pursue compensation directly from the responsible party.
After an accident, you may:
File a claim against the at-fault driver’s liability insurance;
Use your own coverage, such as medical payments coverage (MedPay); and
File a personal injury lawsuit, if necessary.
Maine also applies a modified comparative negligence rule. You can recover damages if you are less than 50% at fault, but your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. Insurance companies often try to shift blame, making legal guidance essential.
What Are Common Causes of Car Accidents on Maine’s I-95, Route 1 & Local Roads?
Most accidents are preventable and result from driver negligence. Understanding these causes can help establish liability. Common causes include:
Speeding and aggressive driving,
Distracted driving,
Alcohol or drug impairment, and
Failure to obey traffic signals.
Seasonal trends also increase risk. Summer tourism increases traffic and crash rates, while winter weather creates dangerous road conditions. These factors often play a role in serious injury claims handled by a car accident lawyer in Maine.
Reckless Driving Accidents in Maine
Reckless driving is a leading cause of severe injuries and fatalities. These behaviors show a disregard for safety and often strengthen legal claims. Examples include:
Speeding or racing,
Aggressive driving and tailgating, and
Distracted driving combined with unsafe speeds.
When multiple negligent actions occur together, liability becomes clearer, and damages may increase. A skilled Maine motor vehicle accident lawyer can use evidence such as police reports and expert analysis to prove fault.
See what our clients have to say about our services:
DUI / Drunk Driving Accidents in Maine
In Maine, impaired driving is referred to as Operating Under the Influence (OUI). A driver reaches a level of legal impairment at a BAC of 0.08% or higher. These cases often involve both criminal charges against the driver and a civil claim for compensation.
Because drunk driving is considered gross negligence, victims may be eligible for punitive damages. In some cases, dram shop liability may apply if a business over-serves alcohol. Acting quickly is important to preserve evidence and strengthen your claim.
Do I Need a Lawyer After a Car Accident?
Not every accident requires legal representation, but many do. Hiring a Maine car accident lawyer is especially important when your case involves:
Serious injuries,
Disputed or shared fault,
Low insurance settlement offers,
Multi-vehicle or commercial accidents, or
Fatalities.
Without legal guidance, you risk accepting less than you deserve or missing deadlines. Maine’s 6-year statute of limitations may seem long, but delays can weaken your case.
When to Hire After a Car Accident
The sooner you hire an attorney, the stronger your case can be. Early legal involvement helps preserve evidence and avoid costly mistakes. An attorney will:
Collect medical records and documentation,
Secure police reports and witness statements,
Work with accident reconstruction experts, and
Handle insurance negotiations.
This allows you to focus on recovery while your attorney builds your case and protects your interests.
Types of Motor Vehicle Accident Cases in Maine
Motor vehicle accidents involve more than just passenger cars. The type of accident can significantly affect liability and insurance coverage.
These cases may include:
Passenger vehicles,
Commercial trucks and fleet vehicles,
Rideshare or delivery drivers, and
Multi-vehicle collisions.
Commercial and multi-vehicle cases often involve multiple parties and higher insurance limits. A knowledgeable Maine motor vehicle accident lawyer can identify all sources of compensation.
Reach out to us by filling our free form below and someone from our car accident attorney team will be with you shortly.
Fatal Car Accidents / Wrongful Death from Car Crashes
Tragically, some accidents result in loss of life. In these cases, families may pursue a wrongful death claim under Maine law. Compensation may include:
Funeral and burial expenses,
Loss of income and financial support, and
Loss of companionship.
These cases are often linked to reckless or impaired driving. Working with an experienced car accident lawyer in Maine helps ensure the protection of your family’s rights during this difficult time.
What Compensation Is Available After a Car Accident?
The financial impact of an accident often extends beyond medical bills. Maine law allows injured victims to pursue compensation for a variety of damages, including:
Medical expenses,
Lost wages and reduced earning capacity,
Pain and suffering,
Loss of enjoyment of life,
Property damage, and
Wrongful death damages.
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. A skilled Maine car accident attorney will advocate for full compensation through negotiation or litigation.
Why Choose Mann Law?
Our office delivers the highest level of personal injury representation in Maine and New England. Collectively, we’ve been advocating for individuals for over 50 years. We are passionate about protecting what you value most and guiding you through life’s most difficult challenges.
Mann Law is a statewide practice with offices across Maine, and our attorneys are licensed in multiple states. While you focus on healing, we handle the legal process.
Contact a Car Accident Lawyer in Maine Today
If you’ve been injured in a crash, you don’t have to face the process alone. A trusted car accident lawyer in Maine can guide you through every step, from handling insurance companies to building your case and fighting for the compensation you deserve.
Insurance companies work to protect their bottom line, not yours. Mann Law fights back with decades of combined experience and a statewide presence across Maine. Contact our team today for a free, no-obligation consultation.Talk to an Attorney Today
FAQs
Is Maine a “Fault” or “No-Fault” State for Car Accidents?
Maine is a fault-based state, meaning the at-fault driver is responsible for damages.
How Is Fault Determined in Maine Car Accident Cases?
Fault is determined through evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and expert analysis under Maine’s comparative negligence rule.
What Evidence Is Needed to Prove a Car Accident Claim?
Medical records, accident reports, witness testimony, and expert analysis are commonly used.
What Is the Difference Between OUI and DUI in Maine?
Maine uses the term Operating Under the Influence (OUI) instead of DUI. Both refer to impaired driving.
What should I do right after a car accident in Maine?
Check yourself and others for injuries and call 911. Move to safety if possible, document the scene with photos, exchange information with the other driver, and collect witness contact details. Seek medical evaluation even if you feel uninjured, and contact a Maine car accident lawyer before speaking with any insurance adjuster.
What is Maine’s fault rule for car accidents?
Maine follows a modified comparative fault rule. You can recover compensation as long as you are found less than 50 percent at fault for the crash. Your damages will be reduced by your percentage of fault, so the specific allocation of blame has a direct impact on your recovery.
How does Maine’s auto insurance requirement affect my claim?
Maine requires drivers to carry a minimum of $50,000 per person in bodily injury liability coverage. When your injuries exceed the at-fault driver’s policy limits, your own underinsured motorist coverage may provide additional compensation, and a Maine car accident attorney can help you navigate both.
How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Maine?
Maine’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally six years from the date of the accident. However, claims involving government vehicles or entities may have shorter notice requirements. Acting promptly protects your right to compensation and ensures evidence is preserved
Local Resources in Maine
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Maine, these trusted local resources can help with emergency care, accident reporting, towing, and vehicle repairs. While these services can assist in the immediate aftermath, speaking with a Maine car accident attorney as soon as possible can help protect your rights and your claim.
Police & Public Safety
Maine State Police – The primary agency responding to car accidents on the Maine Turnpike, I-95, I-295, Route 1, and other state highways throughout Maine. Call 911 for emergencies or (207) 624-7076 for non-emergency inquiries. Visit Website
Portland Police Department – 109 Middle St, Portland, ME 04101. Handles law enforcement and accident investigations within Portland city limits. Call (207) 874-8575. Visit Website
Bangor Police Department – 240 Main St, Bangor, ME 04401. Handles car accident investigations within Bangor city limits. Call (207) 947-7382. Visit Website
Accident Reports & Records
Maine State Police Crash Reports – Request certified crash reports for accidents investigated by Maine State Police on the Maine Turnpike, I-95, I-295, Route 1, or other state-maintained roads. Request Report
Portland Police Department Records – Request official crash reports for car accidents investigated by Portland Police Department officers within city limits. Call (207) 874-8300. Visit Website
Bangor Police Department Records – Request crash reports for car accidents investigated within Bangor city limits. Call (207) 947-7382. Visit Website
Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles – Driver & Vehicle Records – Request driving records, insurance verification, and vehicle history for all parties involved in a Maine car accident. Visit Website
Medical & Emergency Care
MaineGeneral Medical Center – Augusta – 35 Medical Center Pkwy, Augusta, ME 04330. Full-service hospital with emergency services for car accident victims in Kennebec County. Visit Website
Southern Maine Health Care – Biddeford – 1 Medical Center Dr, Biddeford, ME 04005. Full-service hospital with emergency services serving York County car accident victims in southern Maine. Visit Website
Urgent Care & Rehabilitation
MaineHealth GoHealth Urgent Care – Immediate care and specialist referrals at multiple Maine locations for car accident victims who do not require emergency department treatment. Find a Location
Towing & Roadside Assistance
Union Street Towing– 24/7 emergency towing and roadside assistance serving Bangor and central Maine. Call +1 207 942 4200.
Collision Repair & Auto Body Shops
Caliber Collision – Portland/South Portland – Trusted nationwide collision repair provider offering insurance coordination and lifetime repair warranties, with locations in the greater Portland area. Visit Website
Gerber Collision & Glass – Bangor – Full-service collision repair and auto body shop serving central and northern Maine. Visit Website
CARSTAR – Maine Locations – Quality collision repair with insurance claim support and a nationwide warranty at multiple Maine locations. Visit Website
Auto Repair & Mechanics
RepairPal Certified Shops – Portland – Compare vetted auto repair shops across the Portland area with fair pricing and service guarantees. Find Shops Near You
RepairPal Certified Shops – Bangor – Compare vetted auto repair shops in the Bangor area with fair pricing and service guarantees. Find Shops Near You
NAPA AutoCare – Maine Locations – Find certified mechanics and top-rated auto repair shops near you across Maine with verified customer reviews. Find a Shop
Rental Car Services
Enterprise Rent-A-Car – Portland – Multiple Portland-area locations offering insurance replacement rentals for Maine car accident victims. Visit Website
Hertz Car Rental – Portland Jetport – Convenient short- and long-term rental options at Portland International Jetport and surrounding area. Visit Website
Enterprise Rent-A-Car – Bangor – Insurance replacement and rental vehicle options for car accident victims in central and northern Maine. Visit Website
Maine Car Accident Law & Insurance Resources
Maine Comparative Negligence – Title 14 § 156 – Maine follows modified comparative fault, meaning you can recover compensation as long as you are found less than 50% at fault for the accident. Your damages are reduced by your percentage of fault. Insurance companies routinely try to shift blame to reduce payouts, making early legal involvement critical. View Statute
Maine Statute of Limitations – Title 14 § 752 – Maine allows six years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit — the longest in this series. However, claims involving government vehicles or entities may have shorter notice requirements, and evidence fades quickly regardless of the statutory window. View Statute
Maine Wrongful Death Act – Title 18-C § 2-807 – Wrongful death claims arising from fatal car accidents must be filed within two years of the date of death — significantly shorter than the six-year personal injury window. View Statute
Maine OUI Law – Operating Under the Influence – Maine uses the term Operating Under the Influence (OUI) rather than DUI. A driver is legally impaired at a BAC of 0.08% or higher. OUI cases may support both criminal charges and a civil claim for compensation, with potential punitive damages for gross negligence. View Maine DPS OUI Information
Maine Liquor Liability (Dram Shop) Act – Title 28-A Chapter 100 – Maine’s dram shop law may allow car accident victims injured by an intoxicated driver to hold a bar or establishment liable if it over-served the at-fault driver. View Statute
Maine Mandatory Insurance – $50,000 Minimum Coverage – Maine requires drivers to carry a minimum of $50,000 per person in bodily injury liability coverage. When injuries exceed the at-fault driver’s policy limits, your own underinsured motorist coverage may provide additional compensation. Visit Maine BMV Insurance
Maine Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage – Maine law requires auto insurance policies to include uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, which provides a pathway to compensation when the at-fault driver is uninsured or their coverage is insufficient to cover your damages. Visit Maine BMV Insurance
Transportation Services
Greater Portland Metro (METRO Bus) – Public bus service throughout Portland and Cumberland County for those unable to drive following a car accident. Visit Website
Community Connector – Bangor Area Transit – Public bus service connecting Bangor, Brewer, Old Town, and surrounding communities for central Maine car accident victims. Visit Website
Mental Health & Support
MaineHealth Behavioral Health – Mental health counseling, trauma-informed therapy, and crisis support for Maine car accident survivors dealing with PTSD, anxiety, and long-term emotional recovery. Visit Website
Maine Crisis Line – 24/7 crisis support for Maine residents. call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org for the national Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Visit Website
SAMHSA National Helpline – Free, confidential, 24/7 mental health and substance use treatment referral and information. Call 1-800-662-4357. Visit Website
Legal References Used to Inform This Page
To ensure the accuracy and clarity of this page, we referenced official legal and other resources during the content development process:
When it was over, she looked at me and she said, “you’re done. You won.” I just felt like a whole weight was lifted off my shoulders. [Chrissy and her staff] were always very helpful in answering my many questions. I would highly recommend Mann Law to anyone that is looking for legal assistance.
Jenn
I’m blown away by the settlement she got me. She took me by the hand and she did an excellent job. She so far exceeded what I thought would happen. Calling her was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
Bryan
I don’t think a person could ask for a better lawyer than Christiana Mann. She and her Paralegal Candice work tirelessly for their clients to get the best results. They are Kind, understanding, compassionate, open minded, professional and honest. If you are looking for the best, you found her!
