Pedestrian Accident Attorney | Portland

Portland, Maine, is a vibrant city known for its walkable streets and picturesque neighborhoods. However, with increased foot traffic comes the unfortunate risk of pedestrian accidents.

These incidents leave victims facing life-altering injuries, emotional trauma, and mounting medical expenses. When such tragedies occur, it’s vital to have an advocate who understands the local legal landscape.

A skilled pedestrian accident attorney in Portland makes all the difference in navigating these challenges and securing the compensation you deserve.

Why You Need a Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Portland

Pedestrian accidents cause severe injuries due to the vulnerability of those on foot as compared to vehicles. Without the protection of a car’s frame, pedestrians are at a high risk of broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal damage.

Suffering injuries in these accidents leaves most feeling overwhelmed. A dedicated Portland pedestrian accident lawyer ensures you have someone representing your best interests and helping you through the complex legal landscape. An attorney assists in myriad ways.

Understanding Maine’s Fault Laws

Maine operates under a modified comparative negligence system. This means that if you are partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.

For example, if you are 20% at fault, your final award is reduced by that amount. A pedestrian accident attorney in Portland helps build a solid case, minimizing any claims of shared liability and ensuring the focus remains on the at-fault party’s negligence.

Navigating Insurance Claims

Dealing with insurance companies after an accident is rarely straightforward. Insurers often use tactics to undervalue your claim, downplay your injuries, or deny liability.

A knowledgeable Portland personal injury attorney ensures professional and effective communications with insurers, giving you the best chance at a fair settlement that fully accounts for your damages.

Maximizing Compensation

Pedestrian accidents lead to extensive medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing rehabilitation costs. The emotional toll and diminished quality of life also warrant compensation.

A Portland pedestrian accident attorney calculates the full extent of your economic and noneconomic damages to pursue maximum compensation on your behalf.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Portland

Pedestrian accidents happen anywhere, but certain factors increase the likelihood of these incidents. Understanding these causes helps you stay vigilant and build a strong case if an accident occurs.

• Distracted driving. Drivers texting or using their phones often fail to notice pedestrians crossing streets or walking along roadways.
• Speeding. Excessive speed reduces reaction time, making it harder for drivers to avoid collisions with pedestrians.
• Failure to yield. Maine law requires vehicles to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks, but drivers frequently neglect this rule, leading to accidents.
• Poor visibility. Nighttime, adverse weather, and insufficient street lighting can contribute to pedestrian collisions.

Knowing these common causes of pedestrian accidents helps victims identify contributing factors and strengthen their legal claims.

Pedestrian Accident Laws in Maine

Maine has specific laws designed to protect pedestrians. However, not all drivers adhere to these regulations, leading to accidents and injuries. Below are key legal points every pedestrian in Portland should know:

• Right of way at crosswalks. Under Maine law, vehicles must stop for pedestrians crossing within marked crosswalks or unmarked crosswalks at intersections.
• Sidewalks and roadways. If sidewalks are unavailable, pedestrians should walk on the left side of the road facing traffic.
• Driver responsibility. Motorists must exercise due care to avoid hitting pedestrians, even if they are outside of marked crosswalks.

When motorists violate these laws, and an accident occurs, injured pedestrians can seek compensation. An experienced Portland pedestrian accident lawyer helps hold negligent parties accountable and gets their clients the compensation they need and deserve.

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Portland

The steps you take immediately following a pedestrian accident can impact your ability to file a successful claim. Below is a guide to protecting your rights and building a strong case.

Seek Medical Attention

Your health is the top priority. Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Visiting a doctor also creates a medical record that links your injuries to the accident.

Call the Police

Report the accident to law enforcement. The responding officer creates an official report detailing the incident, which can be critical evidence.

Gather Evidence

Take photos of the accident scene, including any visible injuries, vehicle damage, and the surrounding area. Collect contact information from witnesses and the driver involved.

Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters

Anything you say to an insurance adjuster could be used against you to weaken your case for compensation.

Additionally, insurance adjusters may pressure you to accept an initial settlement offer that barely touches the surface of your injuries and losses. Directing all communications to your attorney ensures the protection of your rights.

How a Portland Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Can Help

When you hire a Portland pedestrian accident attorney, you gain an advocate who understands Maine’s laws and how to build a compelling case. Here’s what you can expect from their assistance:

• Case investigation. Your attorney gathers evidence to establish liability, including witness statements, surveillance footage, and accident reports.
• Expert connections. Your attorney may collaborate with medical experts and accident reconstruction specialists to quantify damages and strengthen your claim.
• Legal representation. If the insurance company refuses to settle, your lawyer represents you in court and litigates your case.

By handling the complexities of your case, a pedestrian accident attorney allows you to focus on recovery while ensuring your rights are protected.

Compensation Available in Pedestrian Accident Cases

The damages you may recover after a pedestrian accident depend on the severity of your injuries and the circumstances of the incident. 

Economic damages, which represent tangible losses directly stemming from your accident. Common examples include:

• Medical expenses (current and future),
• Lost wages, and
• Property damage. 

Receipts, invoices, and other documentation support your demand for these losses. 

Noneconomic damages include intangible and subjective losses resulting from the 

• Pain and suffering,
• Emotional distress, and
• Loss of enjoyment of life.

Your testimony and the testimony from friends and family about how your injuries have impacted your life establish the value of these losses. 

Punitive Damages

In extreme negligence cases, the court may award punitive damages to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior. A skilled Portland pedestrian accident lawyer ensures all potential damages are considered and pursued.

Choosing the Right Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Portland

Selecting an attorney is a crucial decision impacting the outcome of your case. When evaluating potential lawyers, consider the following:

• Experience. Look for an attorney with a proven track record in pedestrian accident cases.
• Local knowledge. Portland-specific expertise ensures familiarity with Maine laws and local courts.
• Client reviews. Read testimonials to understand the attorney’s reputation and client satisfaction.

An attorney who combines legal expertise with compassion provides the support and guidance you need during this challenging time.

Why Act Quickly

In Maine, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally six years from the accident date. However, acting sooner rather than later is always advisable.

Evidence can fade, and delays may weaken your case. Contacting a pedestrian accident attorney in Portland ensures the prompt filing of your claim within the required timeframe and the preservation of critical evidence.

Get the Help You Deserve

You don’t have to face the aftermath of a pedestrian accident alone. At Mann Law, we understand accident victims’ challenges and provide compassionate, results-driven representation.

Our team has extensive experience handling pedestrian accident cases, and we are committed to securing the justice and compensation you need to move forward.

Contact Mann Law today for a free consultation if you or a loved one suffered injuries in a pedestrian accident. Let us fight for your future while you focus on recovery.