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.

Contact us at 207-709-0900 to discuss your case in detail.

After an accident, your recovery is our priority—let us fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today. contact us
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Key Takeaways

  • 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.

The Client Experience

What It Is Like to Work With Mann Law

A car accident in Maine brings insurance calls, medical bills, and a lot of questions you never expected to ask. Here is what working with our team looks like, in the words of the people who have lived it.

We take on the cases that have stalled elsewhere

If your case has not moved in years, or your current attorney is not getting anywhere, we will take a fresh look.

“I called Mann Law after working with another attorney for over four years after my automobile accident. We were not making much progress. I ended up with a fair settlement and peace of mind, knowing that I was in good hands.”

Rhonda D., Google Review

We keep you informed in plain language

You should never feel talked over during your own case. We explain each step so you can make informed decisions.

“Christiane listened to my story, my pain, my concerns, and many questions. I really appreciated her honesty, and I felt like because of her I was able to make clear and informed decisions that were best for me.”

Kayla A., Google Review

We carry the weight so you can heal

Between the injury and the insurance calls, recovery gets pushed aside. We make sure it does not have to.

“My car was totaled and I suffered personal injuries. Christine Mann assured me my job was to heal and to get better while they would worry about the rest, and negotiated a fair settlement on my behalf.”

Betty G., Google Review


A car accident in Maine can turn your life upside down in an instant. We cannot undo the crash, but we can carry the weight of the claim, and stay beside you until you are able to move forward.

Maine's Insurance Deadlines Move Fast After a Crash. Get Answers Before You Talk to the Adjuster. Call Us Now

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.

If you had children riding in the vehicle, check their car seats for damage and confirm they still meet Maine car seat laws before using them again.

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.

maine car accident attorney

 

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.

Seasonal Driving Risks on the Maine Turnpike

Winter and summer bring different driving risks to Maine roads. On the Maine Turnpike, black ice is especially common in early morning hours during winter storms, prompting the Maine Turnpike Authority to activate flashing 45 mph speed signs and deploy State Police Troop G to patrol for imprudent speed. In summer, tourist traffic bound for Acadia National Park and coastal destinations creates bottlenecks near popular exits. Both seasonal patterns contribute to a higher concentration of crashes at predictable times and locations along Maine’s major travel corridors.

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 crash 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.

    Contact Us Today

    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 crash attorney will advocate for full compensation through negotiation or litigation.

    Car Accidents in Maine’s Busiest Corridors and Neighborhoods

    Crashes in Maine aren’t limited to the interstates. Some of the state’s busiest local corridors see just as many collisions, often where dense foot traffic, tourist congestion, and seasonal traffic patterns create their own hazards.

    The Old Port and downtown Portland see frequent crashes around Commercial Street and Congress Street, where cobblestone crosswalks, one-way streets, and cruise-ship-season crowds raise the risk of both vehicle and pedestrian collisions.

    Munjoy Hill and the East End funnel commuter traffic onto I-295 at the Tukey’s Bridge on-ramp, making this a common site for rear-end and merging collisions during morning and evening rush hour.

    Back Cove and Baxter Boulevard’s mix of runners, cyclists, and vehicle traffic makes it a frequent site of turning and pedestrian-involved collisions, especially in the evenings.

    Bangor’s Broadway and Hogan Road corridor, near the I-95/I-395 interchange, sees frequent parking-lot and intersection collisions tied to retail traffic around the Bangor Mall.

    The Route 1 Midcoast corridor through Yarmouth, Freeport, and Brunswick sees stop-and-go summer tourist traffic that raises the risk of rear-end collisions.

    Where your accident happened can affect which police department responds, whether nearby traffic cameras captured the crash, and which local businesses might have surveillance footage worth requesting before it’s overwritten. A Maine car accident lawyer familiar with these corridors knows where to look for that evidence and how quickly it needs to be secured.

     Local Crash Hotspots

    Where Maine Drivers Face the Highest Crash Risk

    Highway mileage isn’t the whole story when it comes to Maine crashes. A number of local streets, neighborhood corridors, and seasonal tourist routes carry a disproportionate share of the risk.

    Downtown Portland’s Waterfront District

    Cobblestone crosswalks, narrow one-way streets, and cruise-ship crowds combine to create a steady stream of vehicle and pedestrian collisions in this historic shopping and dining area.

    The I-295 On-Ramp Near Tukey’s Bridge

    Commuters from Portland’s East End neighborhoods merge onto the interstate here every morning and evening, a recurring source of rear-end and merge-related crashes.

    Baxter Boulevard Around Back Cove

    Joggers, cyclists, and drivers share this scenic loop, and evening hours in particular see a pattern of turning and pedestrian-involved incidents.

    The Bangor Mall Retail Corridor

    Traffic feeding into Broadway and Hogan Road from the nearby I-95/I-395 interchange creates frequent parking-lot fender-benders and intersection crashes.

    Coastal Route 1 Through the Midcoast Towns

    Yarmouth, Freeport, and Brunswick all see summer traffic back up along this stretch, and stop-and-go conditions raise the odds of a rear-end collision.

    The Maine Turnpike in Winter and Summer

    Early-morning black ice triggers reduced speed limits and extra trooper patrols in the colder months, while summer brings Acadia-bound tourist congestion near popular exits.

    Injured Somewhere in Maine?

    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

    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.

    At Mann Law, we handle everything so you can focus on recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation.

    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

    Maine Car Accident Statute of Limitations Calculator

    Enter the date of your accident to see the filing deadline that generally applies to your situation.

    Please select a valid date that isn't in the future.
    Disclaimer: This calculator provides general deadline estimates only and is not legal advice. Some deadlines may run from treatment dates, work-loss dates, the date of death, notice-filing dates, claim denial dates, or other case-specific events rather than the accident date alone. Always verify deadlines with a licensed Maine attorney.

    Local Resources in Maine

    If you’ve been involved in a car crash 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

    Statewide Agency

    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

    City Agency

    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

    City Agency

    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

    Crash Reports

    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

    Crash Reports

    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

    Crash Reports

    Bangor Police Department Records

    Request crash reports for car accidents investigated within Bangor city limits. Call (207) 947-7382.

    Visit Website

    State Records

    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.

    Medical & Emergency Care

    Hospital

    MaineGeneral Medical Center – Augusta

    35 Medical Center Pkwy, Augusta, ME 04330. Full-service hospital with emergency services for car accident victims in Kennebec County.

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    Hospital

    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.

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    Urgent Care & Rehabilitation

    Urgent Care

    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

    24/7 Towing

    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

    Collision Repair

    Caliber Collision – Portland/South Portland

    Trusted nationwide collision repair provider offering insurance coordination and lifetime repair warranties, with locations in the greater Portland area.

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    Collision Repair

    Gerber Collision & Glass – Bangor

    Full-service collision repair and auto body shop serving central and northern Maine.

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    Collision Repair

    CARSTAR – Maine Locations

    Quality collision repair with insurance claim support and a nationwide warranty at multiple Maine locations.

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    Auto Repair & Mechanics

    Auto Repair

    RepairPal Certified Shops – Portland

    Compare vetted auto repair shops across the Portland area with fair pricing and service guarantees.

    Find Shops Near You

    Auto Repair

    RepairPal Certified Shops – Bangor

    Compare vetted auto repair shops in the Bangor area with fair pricing and service guarantees.

    Find Shops Near You

    Auto Repair

    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

    Rental Cars

    Enterprise Rent-A-Car – Portland

    Multiple Portland-area locations offering insurance replacement rentals for Maine car accident victims.

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    Rental Cars

    Hertz Car Rental – Portland Jetport

    Convenient short- and long-term rental options at Portland International Jetport and surrounding area.

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    Rental Cars

    Enterprise Rent-A-Car – Bangor

    Insurance replacement and rental vehicle options for car accident victims in central and northern Maine.

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    Maine Car Accident Law & Insurance Resources

    Statute

    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

    Filing Deadline

    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

    Filing Deadline

    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

    State Law

    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

    Statute

    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

    Insurance

    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.

    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

    Public Transit

    Greater Portland Metro (METRO Bus)

    Public bus service throughout Portland and Cumberland County for those unable to drive following a car accident.

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    Public Transit

    Community Connector – Bangor Area Transit

    Public bus service connecting Bangor, Brewer, Old Town, and surrounding communities for central Maine car accident victims.

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    Mental Health & Support

    Counseling

    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.

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    24/7 Crisis Line

    Maine Crisis Line

    24/7 crisis support for Maine residents. call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org for the national Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

    24/7 Helpline

    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:

    You can find our Yarmouth, ME office here:

     

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