Autumn city in Augusta, Maine

Need Help After a Car Accident?

Hiring a Portland car accident lawyer makes getting help easy. Call Lowry & Associates today to find out how we can help you secure the compensation you may deserve and navigate the complexities of your car accident claim.

Get Your FREE Case Review

Portland Car Accident Lawyer

A car accident can happen at any moment, resulting in life-changing injuries or even casualties. A serious injury or loss can change the entire dynamics of your life. When you suffer as the result of someone else’s careless actions, you may be entitled to compensation that could help you move forward.

However, navigating the legal system and dealing with insurance companies can be incredibly difficult, especially when you’re trying to recover from serious injuries. Our attorneys at Lowry & Associates have helped countless injured victims, their families, and communities across the state receive the justice and compensation they deserve. If you’ve been injured in a car accident that wasn’t your fault, we may be able to help you, too. All you have to do is contact a car accident lawyer in Portland, ME, to get started!

Get a FREE Case Review

We Make It Easy

We will begin reviewing your case as soon as you contact us. From there, it’s all up to us. We take care of everything, so you can focus on recovering from your injuries.

You Deserve Compensation

You deserve compensation for your losses. Our lawyers may be able to help you get every dollar you are owed.

No Fee Unless We Win

Wondering if you can afford to hire an attorney? You can! It costs nothing to retain our services and we work on a contingency-fee basis, so you won’t owe us a dime unless we win for you.

Table of Contents

What To Do Immediately After a Car Accident

Following specific steps after a Portland car accident helps ensure the safety of yourself and others. If damages have occurred, following these steps after a car accident can also help you with your case if you decide to file a claim or lawsuit.

  1. Safety should be the top priority. If you are in a collision, check your surroundings and see if anyone involved was injured.
  2. Contact emergency personnel.
  3. If possible, take photos of the accident from various angles. They could be used as evidence later on.
  4. Do not talk to any insurance companies or make any promises to those involved without speaking to a car accident lawyer first. Making commitments to not contact your insurance company and file a claim can impact your chances of receiving any compensation you’re rightfully owed.
  5. Keep any medical records and documents that could be used in your case.
  6. Once you have hired one of our experienced attorneys, we want you to focus on recovering so that you can return to your life as quickly as possible.

Get a FREE Case Review

You Have Rights After a Serious Accident

After a car accident, especially one that leads to severe injuries, it’s important to know that you have legal rights. These rights allow you to seek justice and potentially recover damages for your losses. Some of the key rights include:

  • The Right To Hire a Lawyer: If you’ve been injured in an accident, you have the right to hire an attorney to represent you. Having legal representation can help you navigate the complex legal process and deal with insurance companies.
  • The Right To Seek Compensation: Depending on the details of your accident, you may be entitled to financial recovery for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
  • The Right To File a Lawsuit: If an insurance settlement isn’t enough or if fault is being disputed, you have the right to take your case to court.

What To Expect in the Car Accident Claims Process

Car accident claims can be frustrating and overwhelming, but knowing what to expect can help ease some of the stress you will be facing. Here are the key steps in the claims process:

At Lowry & Associates in Portland, ME, we offer free case reviews with our experienced attorneys. During this consultation, we’ll listen to the details of your case, answer your questions, and explain your options moving forward. This is the first step toward understanding your potential claim.

Building a strong case relies on collecting the right evidence. This includes gathering the police report, witness statements, photos of the accident scene, and medical records. Our team works with you to ensure all necessary documentation is compiled to support your claim.

Your attorney will handle communication with the insurance companies, including fielding calls and negotiating fiercely on your behalf. We strive to secure the maximum settlement amount that is available to you under the law, taking into account your injuries and losses.

While most car accident cases are resolved through settlements, there are times when a fair offer isn’t reached. In such instances, our attorneys are prepared to represent you in court to help seek the compensation you may deserve.

If a settlement is reached, your attorney will help you decide whether to accept or deny the offer. We work hard to ensure the compensation you may receive is fair and reflects your needs, and we help make sure you receive your check in a timely manner.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t navigate the claims process alone. Contact Lowry & Associates today for a free case review. Our experienced team is ready to help you understand your options and fight for the compensation you may deserve.

What Is a Maine Car Accident Claim Worth?

Each car accident claim is unique, and determining the full value depends on several factors. At Lowry & Associates, we help you get the most money available to you for your losses by considering all relevant damages. Our attorneys conduct a thorough case review to assess the full extent of your claim and, when necessary, collaborate with professionals to ensure all aspects are considered. Below, we outline the key factors that impact the value of your car accident claim.

Injuries You Can Be Compensated For

Car accident victims may be eligible to recover compensation for a wide range of injuries. Common injuries include:

  • Whiplash: One of the most common injuries in collisions, whiplash occurs when the neck is forced back and forth suddenly.
  • Spinal Cord Injuries: Severe spinal injuries can lead to partial or complete paralysis and require long-term care.
  • Broken Bones: Fractures in the arms, legs, and ribs are common in high-impact collisions.
  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): A blow to the head can cause concussions or more severe brain injuries.
  • Internal Injuries: These may not be immediately visible but can be life-threatening if untreated.
  • Wrongful Death: If a loved one passed away due to the accident, you may be entitled to file a wrongful death claim.

Recovering Lost Wages

If you’ve missed work due to your injuries, you may be able to recover the wages you lost during your recovery. This can include not only the time missed immediately after the accident but also future missed work, especially if your injuries prevent you from returning to your job or affect your earning capacity in the long term.

Pain and Suffering Damages

Pain and suffering damages are meant to compensate you for the emotional distress and physical pain that you’ve endured due to the accident. Factors such as the severity of your injuries and the long-term impact on your quality of life are considered when determining pain and suffering compensation.

Punitive Damages in Maine

In rare cases, punitive damages may be awarded in Maine. These damages are designed to punish particularly reckless behavior, such as driving under the influence or intentional harm. While these damages aren’t common, they can increase the value of a claim.

We Get The Results You Need After a Car Accident

$920,000.00

Car Accident

$350,000.00

Car Accident

$300,000.00

Car Accident

$300,000.00

Car Accident

$300,000.00

Negligent Taxi Driver

$285,000.00

Car Accident

$260,000.00

Car Accident

$250,000.00

Car Accident

$250,000.00

Car Accident

$225,000.00

Car Accident

Maine Car Accident Laws

Maine’s car accident laws determine how fault is assigned, what you need to prove to show negligence, and the time limits for filing a claim. Below, we break down some of the key aspects of Maine’s car accident laws to help you better understand your rights and responsibilities after a crash.

Maine Is a Fault State

Maine operates under a “fault” system when it comes to auto insurance and car accident liability, meaning that the at-fault driver is responsible for compensating the other party.

Proving Negligence

In legal terms, negligence occurs when someone fails to act with the level of care that a reasonable person would in similar circumstances. In car accident cases, this means drivers are expected to follow the rules of the road, obey traffic signs, and stay alert while driving. Negligence can include behaviors such as driving under the influence, speeding, ignoring posted signs, or driving recklessly. To prove fault in a car accident, your Portland car accident lawyer will need to demonstrate that the other driver breached their duty of care and that this breach directly caused your injuries and damages.

However, because Maine follows comparative negligence laws, your compensation could be reduced if the insurance company successfully argues that you were partially at fault for your injuries.

Deadline To File a Claim in Maine

In Maine, you have 6 years from the date of your car accident to file a lawsuit for compensation. For claims against a city, county, or state government agency, the deadlines are shorter—180 days to file a formal claim and 2 years to file a lawsuit.

While 6 years may seem like a long time, certain cases require quicker action. Some notices must be filed within months, and insurance deadlines can be as short as 30 days. To avoid missing any important deadlines, it’s crucial to contact an attorney as soon as possible. Acting quickly can help ensure you protect your rights and meet all necessary legal requirements.

How Can a Portland Car Accident Lawyer Help?

Car accident claims can be confusing, especially when you’re dealing with injuries and stress. Without legal help, you risk accepting a lower settlement than you may deserve. An experienced lawyer will handle the legal process for you, including gathering evidence, investigating the claim, and negotiating with insurance companies.

Depending on your case, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income, emotional distress, and more. Your lawyer will work to seek the maximum compensation available and guide you if your case needs to go to court. With a skilled advocate on your side, you can focus on recovery, knowing your case is in good hands.

See What Our Clients Are Saying About Us

5 Star Reviews

I could not have asked for a better attorney than Lowry & Associates, and the staff that work for this firm.

-Ronald S.
5 Star Reviews

Michael Vaughn was extremely helpful to us throughout the case.  He was responsible to our needs and requests, and dealt with some very frustrating circumstances with grace and diplomacy.

-Marsha R.
5 Star Reviews

I feel that your team was superb about all that took place with my case, and if I ever need the support of an attorney again, you would be at the top of my list!

-Heidi H.
5 Star Reviews

My attorney did an excellent job on my case.  Whenever I had a question, he provided me with an answer and made it a priority!

-Ryan M.
5 Star Reviews

Thank you for all the help on my case.  The entire staff at Lowry & Associates really delivers an outstanding service!

-Richard S.
5 Star Reviews

From what I have seen over the past couple of years, your firm is represented by a professional team who treat their clients honestly, fairly, and with dignity.  I am so glad I switched to your firm!

-Denise R.
5 Star Reviews

I feel the firm handled my case in an honest and professional way.  I am very happy with my results and would use your firm in the future (though hopefully I won’t have to!)

-Robyn B.
5 Star Reviews

Most of the time I felt like your whole group was treating me like I was the only client!

-Rodney M.
5 Star Reviews

I felt very comfortable with Don representing me.  I feel he did the very best job possible.  I was also very thankful to have a lawyer with as much experience in these types of cases as Don does.  Thanks again.

-Diane G.
5 Star Reviews

I was treated with the utmost respect and kindness, I can’t think of any suggestions that might help enhance your firm!

-Annelle G.

See More Testimonials

Types of Car Accidents Eligible for Compensation

Several types of car accidents may make you eligible for compensation, especially when negligence is involved. These include:

  • Distracted driving: Accidents caused by drivers texting, using a cell phone, or not paying attention to the road.
  • Bad weather: Poor visibility or slippery conditions leading to collisions.
  • Dangerous roads: Accidents caused by poor road conditions, such as potholes or lack of signage.
  • Speeding: Crashes that occur when drivers exceed the speed limit or drive too fast for road conditions.
  • Driving under the influence: Accidents involving drivers impaired by alcohol or drugs.
  • Reckless driving: Includes tailgating, aggressive lane changes, or ignoring traffic signals.

If your accident falls under one of these categories, you may be entitled to pursue compensation for your injuries and damages.

Our Experienced Portland, ME, Car Accident Attorneys

Attorney James C. Beardsley of Lowry & Associates

Attorney James C. Beardsley

View Bio
Attorney Mary K. Larsen

Attorney Mary K. Larsen

View Bio
Attorney Ashley H. Winslow

Attorney Ashley H. Winslow

View Bio
Attorney Colin Reilly

Attorney Colin B. Reilly

View Bio

Schedule Your Free Consultation With Our Portland Car Accident Attorneys Today

While you are technically free under the law to represent yourself in any case, the person responsible for your injuries will have powerful insurance companies and lawyers on their side who know how to use the law against you. Their job is simple—to reduce your settlement amount by as much as possible, whether by getting you to sign off on a lowball offer or by assigning blame to you in negotiations or court. Why not have an experienced and trusted Portland car accident lawyer in your corner who can even the playing field and give you a better chance at getting the compensation you may deserve for your injuries?

We’re available 24/7 to take your call and schedule a free consultation, so don’t wait—get started today.

Get Your FREE Case Evaluation

There's absolutely no obligation.