Injured in a Motorcycle Accident?
Mainers seriously injured rely on our tough-minded Maine motorcycle accident lawyers
A motorcycle accident in Maine can happen in an instant, and injuries can be catastrophic. Unlike occupants of cars who have a steel cage protecting them, motorcyclists have little protection from severe or even fatal motorcycle accident injuries. Motorcycle crashes lead to thousands of deaths and serious injuries every year, and too often, it's the motorist, not the injured rider, who is to blame.
- $2,000,000Motorcycle Accident
- $300,000Motorcycle Accident
- $145,000Motorcycle Accident
Our team secured a $1,900,000 settlement for a client from Limington after she and her husband were hit by a pickup truck that failed to obey a stop sign. They were riding their motorcycle when their lives were changed in seconds due to another driver’s negligence.
If you or a loved one was injured in a motorcycle accident in Maine, whether on I-95 in Portland or Main Street in Sanford, you need strong legal representation. Rely on the experience and professionalism of the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein. Choose a motorcycle accident lawyer in Maine who works aggressively to obtain the maximum compensation for motorcycle accident victims.
“We hired Ben after dealing with another attorney and getting no results and him and his team were amazing and got more done the first week than my other attorney in 4 months. Working with Ben and Michelle was so easy and results were beyond expectations! They always answered my calls and texts, very professional and just all around great to work with. I'd definitely recommend giving them a call over everyone you won't be disappointed. They will have all my future business and will be recommending everyone to them. Thank you Ben and Michelle for everything!” - Aimee W., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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FAQs About Motorcycle Accidents in Maine
- Do I need to see a doctor after a motorcycle accident?
- What are the motorcycle laws in Maine?
- What are common motorcycle accident injuries?
- What is the main cause of motorcycle accidents?
- What are common types of motorcycle accidents?
- Should I speak with the insurance company after a motorcycle accident?
- Who is at fault for a motorcycle accident?
- How is fault determined for a motorcycle accident?
- What types of damages can I recover after a motorcycle accident?
- How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim?
- Do I need a lawyer for a motorcycle accident?
Do I need to see a doctor after a motorcycle accident?
Yes, you should see a doctor as soon as possible after a motorcycle accident, even if you feel fine. Motorcycle crashes often cause serious injuries, and some, like TBIs or internal injuries, may not show symptoms right away. A medical professional can identify injuries early and start treatment before they get worse. Seeing a doctor also creates a medical record, which can be important if you decide to file an insurance claim or pursue compensation. Delaying care may hurt both your health and your ability to recover damages later.
What are the motorcycle laws in Maine?
Motorcycle laws vary from state to state. Maine requires motorcycle riders 17 and younger, first-year license holders, and instructional permit holders to wear helmets. This may reduce the risk of serious injuries or death. Additionally, all riders must wear protective eyewear unless a motorcycle is equipped with a windscreen. Motorcycle riders, like operators of automobiles, are prohibited from driving under the influence of alcohol.
What are common motorcycle accident injuries?
Drivers and passengers in cars have safety features such as airbags and seatbelts to protect them. Bikers typically have nothing but their clothing and a helmet between them and the pavement. They’re much more likely than people riding in cars to get hurt, and motorcycle injuries can be catastrophic, ranging from minor to severe.
Common motorcycle accident injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI): TBIs are caused by a severe blow or jolt to the head, which can occur during a motorcycle accident even if the rider is wearing a helmet. These injuries range from concussions to severe brain damage, leading to long-term cognitive, physical, and emotional impairments.
- Spinal cord injuries: These injuries result from trauma to the spinal cord, potentially causing partial or complete paralysis below the injury site. Spinal cord injuries can lead to permanent loss of function and sensation, significantly impacting the victim's quality of life.
- Broken bones and fractures: The force of a collision often causes broken bones. Common fractures in motorcycle accidents include those to the legs, arms, wrists, ribs, and collarbones. These injuries can require extensive medical treatment, including surgery and rehabilitation.
- Road rash: Road rash occurs when a rider's skin scrapes against the pavement, causing abrasions, cuts, and bruises. Severe cases can lead to deep wounds, infections, scarring, and the need for skin grafts.
- Internal injuries: The blunt force trauma from a motorcycle accident can cause internal injuries to organs such as the liver, spleen, and kidneys. These injuries might not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if not promptly treated.
- Facial injuries: Motorcycle riders are at risk for severe facial injuries in a crash, including broken jaws, dental trauma, and deep cuts. These injuries can lead to disfigurement and require reconstructive surgery.
- Soft tissue injuries: Damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons can result in sprains, strains, and tears. Soft tissue injuries can be painful and may limit mobility, often requiring physical therapy for recovery.
- Amputations: In severe motorcycle accidents, limbs can be so badly damaged that amputation is necessary. Losing a limb has profound physical and emotional consequences, necessitating long-term medical care and rehabilitation.
- Hands and Feet Injuries: Due to their exposure, hands and feet are particularly vulnerable in motorcycle accidents. Injuries can include fractures, dislocations, and severe cuts, potentially leading to permanent disability if not properly treated.
What is the main cause of motorcycle accidents?
The main cause of motorcycle accidents in Maine is failure to uphold a duty of care. Motorists have a duty of care to follow all road rules and drive safely around motorcyclists. Additionally, motorcycle manufacturers have a duty to put only the safest motorcycle products on the market. When these parties fail to uphold their duty of care, and it results in someone’s injury or death, they can be found liable.
Common motorcycle accident causes include the following:
- Car or truck moves into motorcyclist’s right of way.
- A driver is distracted in some form or another (sending text messages or driving under the influence of alcohol, for example).
- Reckless driving or speeding by another motorist.
- A driver fails to yield the right-of-way to a motorcyclist.
- Road defects, such as bumps, potholes, gashes, loose gravel, or debris.
- Motorcycle defects such as malfunctioning brakes or tires.
- A motorist makes a left turn without checking for oncoming motorcyclists.
Motorcycle riders are some of the most vulnerable people on the road, and when motorists don’t drive safely around them, people get hurt. It’s important to retain a qualified attorney who can protect your rights.
What are common types of motorcycle accidents?
Motorcycle accidents can occur in various ways, often resulting in serious injuries or fatalities. Here are some of the most frequent types of motorcycle accidents:
Left-Turn Accidents
These occur when a vehicle turning left at an intersection fails to notice an oncoming motorcycle, resulting in a collision. This is one of the most common and dangerous types of motorcycle accidents.
Lane-Switching Accidents
When drivers change lanes without checking their blind spots, they may collide with a motorcycle traveling in the adjacent lane. Motorcycles are smaller and less visible, making them particularly vulnerable in these situations.
Rear-End Collisions
Motorcycles that stop suddenly can be rear-ended by vehicles following too closely. Due to their smaller size and shorter stopping distance, motorcycles can be easily overlooked by inattentive drivers.
Head-On Collisions
These occur when a motorcycle and another vehicle traveling in opposite directions collide. Due to the high impact force involved, head-on collisions are often fatal.
Dooring Accidents
These occur when a parked vehicle's door is suddenly opened into the path of an oncoming motorcycle. Motorcyclists often have little time to react and avoid the collision.
Road Hazards
Potholes, debris, uneven road surfaces, and other hazards can cause motorcyclists to lose control and crash. These hazards are particularly dangerous for motorcycles due to their smaller size and stability compared to larger vehicles.
Should I speak with the insurance company after a motorcycle accident?
You’ll need to report the accident to your own insurance company, but be cautious when speaking with the other driver’s insurer. Insurance adjusters may try to get you to say something that can be used to reduce or deny your claim. It’s a good idea to speak with a motorcycle accident lawyer before giving any statements. A lawyer can handle communication with the insurance companies on your behalf and protect your rights while you focus on healing.
Who is at fault for a motorcycle accident?
Fault for a motorcycle accident can fall on one or more parties, depending on what caused the crash. In many cases, the other driver is most likely responsible. especially if they were speeding, distracted, or failed to yield. However, government entities, trucking companies and other parties may be responsible if they were involved in the crash. Maine follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means your compensation can be reduced if you’re found partially at fault, but you can still recover damages as long as you're less than 50% responsible.
How is fault determined for a motorcycle accident?
Fault is determined through a thorough investigation of the accident. This may involve reviewing police reports, eyewitness statements, crash scene photos, surveillance footage, and other types of evidence. If the other driver violated traffic laws or acted negligently, that could help establish liability. Insurance companies will conduct their own reviews, but having an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer gather evidence on your behalf can strengthen your case and ensure your side of the story is clearly presented.
What types of damages can I recover after a motorcycle accident?
After a motorcycle accident, costs can add up quickly, from emergency medical care to time missed at work. But the impact often goes beyond just financial losses. You may be facing long-term pain, emotional trauma, or major changes to your daily life. That’s why it’s important to understand what types of damages you may be entitled to.
Every case is different, and the amount you can recover will depend on the severity of your injuries, how the crash has affected your ability to work and live normally, and who was at fault. A successful claim can help you get the financial support you need to move forward after the accident. You may be entitled to recover the following types of damages after a motorcycle accident in Maine:
- Medical expenses (including hospital bills, physical therapy, and future care)
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage to your motorcycle and gear
- Loss of enjoyment of life
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim?
In Maine and every state, there is a deadline for taking any kind of legal action called the statute of limitations. For a motorcycle accident injury claim in Maine, you generally have six years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit. While that may seem like a long time, it’s important to begin the process early. Evidence can disappear, witnesses can forget details, and delays could weaken your case. Talking to a motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible after your accident can help protect your rights and improve your chances of recovering full compensation.
Do I need a lawyer for a motorcycle accident?
Handling a motorcycle accident claim alone can be risky. Insurance companies often have a bias against motorcyclists and stereotype them as “reckless.” Without an attorney advocating for your rights, insurance companies could try to shift the blame onto you and use other tactics to reduce your compensation.
The Maine motorcycle accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein can handle all communications and negotiations with insurance companies, so they don’t try to use their usual tricks. We’ll ensure no stone is left unturned when protecting your rights and fighting for maximum compensation.
Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer if you've been injured
If you or a loved one was hurt in a motorcycle accident in Maine, the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein is here to help you get the compensation you’re entitled to. Our Maine motorcycle accident attorneys have over 50 years of experience fighting for the rights of injured motorcyclists and their families, and we have the case results to prove it. That includes:
- $2 million settlement for a Hampden client who suffered a traumatic brain injury when a car failed to yield and hit her motorcycle.
- $1,900,000 settlementfor a client from Limington who was hit by a pickup truck which had failed to obey a stop sign, leaving the biker permanently impaired and unable to work.
- $1,250,000 settlement for a Hampden client who was hit by a negligent driver who failed to yield the right-of-way, resulting in a torn rotator cuff, torn bicep tendon, cracked ribs, and hip pain.
Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer in Maine at the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein. When you contact us, there’s no obligation. Your case evaluation is free. At the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein, our Maine motorcycle accident lawyers know how to obtain maximum compensation for injury victims. Call Joe now to see how we can help! 1-866-275-4563.
"My experience with Joe couldn't have been better. I was in a bad motorcycle accident that left me injured and unable to work for 2 weeks. I tried my hand at going at it alone but could tell quickly that I was in way over my head. The other drivers insurance company was very difficult to work with. That's when I decided to seek professional help and called Joe! Smartest move I ever made. I went from being completely overwhelmed trying to juggle work, doctors visits, and keeping track of all my expenses to going back to normal. I was able to continue my day to day life while Joe and Michelle handled everything. Not only that but they had the case settled MUCH earlier than I predicted and I was completely satisfied with the outcome. I wish I had called sooner!"
- A.L., Alfred, ME
