Maine Car Accident Lawyers Who Never Back Down

Your first priority after a car accident should be to make sure the scene is safe and to get emergency medical attention for anyone who needs it. Call the police so they can investigate and remain at the scene until the officer arrives. You need to exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver, and get contact information for any witnesses as well, but keep your comments at the scene brief, sticking to the facts of what happened. Even an innocuous “I’m sorry” can come back to haunt you if fault for the crash is disputed. Finally, talk to an experienced car accident attorney right away, before you speak with the insurance company.

Legally, you have the right to protect yourself and your own interests after an accident; that is, you are not required to admit fault. You also have the right, under Maine law, to seek compensation for your losses (such as medical bills or lost income) if the accident was caused by someone else’s negligent or reckless actions. And you have the right to be treated fairly by the insurance company – but often, you need an attorney on your side to protect that right.

Most car accidents are caused by human error, whether that’s distracted driving, drunk driving, fatigued driving, speeding, or reckless driving. Statistically, the single most common cause of fatal crashes is driving at unsafe speeds, followed by drunk driving. Some crashes are caused by defective or poorly maintained vehicles. The point is that most car “accidents” are not accidents at all – they are caused by negligence and could be prevented by more responsible operators and safer vehicles.

If you were hit by someone who didn’t have insurance, or didn’t have enough, you can file an uninsured or underinsured motorist (UM) claim with your own insurance carrier. Maine law requires all car insurance policies to carry UM coverage for precisely this reason. Underinsured motorist coverage also protects you if you’re injured in a hit and run and the driver isn’t found, since an unknown driver is considered uninsured by default.

Some car accident cases do go to trial, but most end up settling out of court. Insurance companies often agree to talk about settling when they see your lawyer has built a strong case and are ready to fight them in court. Make sure your lawyer only agrees to a settlement that meets your needs, including compensation for all current and future medical expenses, any lost wages, and other damages you suffered, such as pain and suffering.

As soon as you hire an attorney, you can stop worrying about dealing with the insurance company; your lawyer will talk to them on your behalf and protect your rights while you focus on healing. An attorney can review your case, determine the full amount of compensation you need and deserve for your injuries, and fight for that compensation in negotiations and at trial. Getting compensation after a car crash can be a long and complex process, but an experienced lawyer will be your advocate and guide every step of the way.