Recovering after a truck collision can be overwhelming, with challenges ranging from severe injuries and emotional trauma to financial stress and complex insurance claims.

That’s why consulting with a trusted truck accident attorney in Portland after an accident is important.

With over 50 years of combined experience, the skilled attorneys at Mann Law can assist you with truck accident claims in Portland, Maine.

From gathering evidence to managing medical expenses and dealing with insurers, we guide you through every step of the recovery process.

Dedicated to protecting your rights, we provide the support and expertise you need to pursue fair compensation and move forward confidently.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

Understanding the common causes of truck accidents in Portland, ME, is crucial for raising awareness and encouraging safety on the roads. Below, we’ve compiled a list of frequent contributors to truck accidents in the area.

  • Distracted driving—driving while using a cell phone, eating, or engaging in other activities;
  • Fatigue—spending too many hours on the road, especially if it exceeds legal limits;
  • Reckless driving—driving too fast or aggressively to meet deadlines;
  • Improper loading—loading cargo unevenly or failing to appropriately secure it; and
  • Insufficient maintenance—neglecting proper maintenance of trucks, resulting in mechanical failures.

Truck accidents are often caused by human error, environmental factors, and mechanical issues. Recognizing these causes is key to prevention.

Identifying Liable Parties in Truck Accidents

Understanding the common causes of truck accidents provides valuable insight into how these incidents occur, but determining who is responsible is equally important.

Multiple parties may be held liable in a truck collision, including:

  • The truck driver, who may be negligent; 
  • The trucking company, which might be responsible for inadequate policies or poor training; 
  • The cargo loading company, if improper loading caused instability; 
  • Maintenance providers, if lack of upkeep contributed to the accident;
  • Truck or part manufacturers, if a product defect caused the accident; and
  • Other drivers, if other vehicles were involved in the incident. 

Determining liability lays the foundation for pursuing compensation, which is critical when accidents result in life-altering injuries and financial hardship.

How to Calculate Damages from a Truck Accident

Truck accidents can cause life-altering injuries, such as brain trauma or spinal damage, leaving victims unable to work temporarily or permanently.

This loss of income, combined with reduced earning potential, creates significant financial strain, not to mention the physical and emotional toll.

At Mann Law, we work diligently to include all current and future costs in your claim—covering medical bills, lost wages, and other damages—so you can focus on rebuilding your life.

When pursuing a truck accident claim, you can obtain both economic and noneconomic damages. Economic damages refer to measurable financial losses caused by the accident, such as:

  • Medical expenses—coverage for emergency care, surgeries, physical therapy, and long-term rehabilitation;
  • Lost wages—reimbursement for income lost during recovery;
  • Reduced earning capacity—compensation for diminished ability to earn in the future; and
  • Property damage—reimbursement for the repair or replacement of your vehicle and other belongings.

Noneconomic damages encompass intangible losses, including: 

  • Pain and suffering—monetary relief for physical pain and emotional trauma caused by the accident;
  • Emotional distress—compensation for lasting emotional trauma, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression;
  • Loss of enjoyment of life—compensation when you are no longer able to participate in activities you used to enjoy; and
  • Loss of consortium—compensation for the impact the accident has on your relationships with loved ones.

Both types of damages play a crucial role in compensating victims for the full extent of their losses.

Maine’s Statute of Limitations for Truck Accident Cases

In Maine, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including truck accidents, is generally six years from the date of the incident. This means you have a six-year window to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party.

Failing to meet this deadline can result in losing your right to pursue compensation, regardless of the validity of your claim.

However, certain exceptions can affect this timeline. For example, for victims under 18, the statute of limitations typically begins running when they reach adulthood.

Understanding and adhering to these deadlines is crucial for preserving your legal rights.

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, it’s advisable to consult with a Portland truck accident lawyer promptly to ensure your claim is filed within the appropriate timeframe.

Importance of Legal Guidance in Truck Accident Cases

Navigating legal timelines can be demanding without proper guidance. That’s where Mann Law’s expertise can make all the difference.

Dealing with Large Trucking Companies and Their Insurers

Dealing with insurance adjusters and trucking company representatives can be stressful, especially when their legal teams are focused on minimizing payouts.

These teams often delay claims, dispute evidence, or offer low settlements, making the process even more daunting. Understanding the complexities of truck accident lawsuits can help you navigate these challenges more effectively.

Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation

At Mann Law, we begin with a free consultation to thoroughly review the details of your accident.

During this meeting, we take the time to understand your unique situation, assess the potential value of your claim, and outline the next steps for moving forward.

Evidence Collection and Investigation

Our team gathers essential documentation, including police reports, witness statements, and truck maintenance logs. We conduct a detailed investigation to determine liability and identify all responsible parties.

Calculating Damages

At Mann Law, we meticulously assess the full extent of your losses to build a comprehensive claim. We aim to ensure that every detail is considered, allowing us to pursue maximum compensation and help you rebuild your life.

Providing Ongoing Support and Guidance

Throughout the process, we are here to provide consistent support. Our team keeps you informed, answers your questions, and addresses your concerns so you can feel confident and supported at every step.

Litigation When Necessary

Mann Law is fully prepared to take your case to court if we cannot reach a fair settlement. Our experienced trial attorneys can advocate vigorously to help secure the compensation you are entitled to.

Post-Settlement Assistance

Even after your case is resolved, our support doesn’t end. We assist you in managing your settlement, navigating any legal complexities, and addressing ongoing recovery needs, helping to ensure you have the resources and guidance to move forward successfully.

Your Next Step Toward Justice Starts Today

Don’t face the aftermath of a truck collision alone—this is when experienced support can make all the difference.

At Mann Law, we combine a deep understanding of Maine’s trucking regulations with a client-focused approach, ensuring every detail of your case is handled effectively.

Our commitment to clear communication and personalized legal strategies has earned our clients’ trust across Portland.

Contact Mann Law today for a free consultation and let a dedicated Portland truck accident lawyer help you confidently move forward.