Attorney James Beardsley standing on top of a big truck, smiling with his arms crossed.

Hurt in a Portland, ME, Truck Accident?

If you've been injured in a truck accident in the Greater Portland area, it’s important to speak with a Portland truck accident lawyer who can help you pursue the compensation entitled to you under the law. At Lowry & Associates, we’ve been committed to helping clients in Maine for over 50 years. Our dedicated team is here to fight for your rights and offer the legal support you need after a serious accident.

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Portland Truck Accident Lawyer

So far in 2024, over 20% of crashes involving large trucks in Portland, ME, have resulted in injuries, according to the Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT). This alarming statistic highlights just how serious truck accidents can be, leading to severe consequences for those involved.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, it’s important to know that help is available. We have been serving the Portland community since 1971, with over 50 years of combined legal experience handling cases like yours. Each truck accident lawyer at the Portland office of Lowry & Associates is here to help you understand your rights and explore the legal options available to you.

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Get started on your claim today with a free consultation from one of the expert attorneys at Lowry & Associates. You don’t even have to leave the house!

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Our attorneys work hard to defend your legal right to compensation, getting you the maximum settlement for your losses so that you can focus on recovery.

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Because our firm works on contingency, you will never have to pay unless we win for you. We also offer free case reviews so that everyone can get the help they need.

Table of Contents

What To Do If You’re Involved in a Truck Accident

After a truck accident, there are key steps you can take to protect your rights and set yourself up for a successful legal outcome. Here’s what you should do immediately after the accident:

1. Ensure Your Safety & Seek Medical Attention

Your first priority should always be your safety. Move to a safe location if you’re able and call 911 to report the accident. Even if you feel fine, seek medical attention. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent but can have serious long-term effects. Having medical records will also be important if you decide to pursue a claim later.

2. Document the Accident Scene

If you are able, gather as much information as possible from the accident scene. Take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Get the contact information of witnesses and the truck driver, as well as their insurance details. This documentation will be valuable when building your case.

3. Get Representation Before Speaking to Insurance

It’s important to avoid speaking to the truck driver’s insurance company or any adjusters without first consulting a lawyer. Insurance adjusters may attempt to use tactics to minimize your claim or shift blame. Referring them to your attorney is the best way to protect your settlement. Our truck accident lawyers at Lowry & Associates understand these tactics and can fight back on your behalf to help ensure you receive the compensation you may be entitled to under the law.

4. Be Aware of the Statute of Limitations

In Maine, the statute of limitations gives you up to 6 years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. However, some cases may have shorter deadlines as low as 30 days, so it’s essential to secure representation as soon as possible to avoid missing your opportunity to pursue compensation. Once the statute of limitations expires, you will likely lose the right to recover damages.

5. Don’t Delay—Get Legal Support

Truck accidents are complex, involving multiple parties and insurance companies. Lowry & Associates has the knowledge and resources to help you through every step of the process. From negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court, we are here to help you seek justice and compensation for your injuries.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

Truck accidents can result from a variety of factors that make them different from the average car accident. Issues such as fatigue, driver error, mechanical failure, and road conditions are often at play. Here are some of the common causes of truck accidents:

  • Substance abuse—The strenuous nature of a truck driver’s job can lead some drivers to turn to drugs or alcohol to cope with long hours and stress, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
  • Defective equipment—It’s not unusual for trucks to have defective parts, which can lead to serious accidents. For example, a malfunctioning brake or tire can cause a truck to jackknife, putting the driver and others on the road at risk.
  • Drunk driving—In some cases, truck drivers engage in reckless behavior, including driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This puts everyone on the road in danger.
  • Poor maintenance—Trucks require regular maintenance to operate safely. Failure to keep up with maintenance can lead to equipment failure and serious accidents.
  • Untrained drivers—Some trucking companies may fail to provide their drivers with proper training. This lack of training increases the risk of avoidable accidents.
  • Driver fatigue—Truck drivers are often pushed to meet tight delivery deadlines, causing them to drive long hours without adequate rest. Fatigue can impair judgment and cause drivers to fall asleep at the wheel.
  • Road design—In some cases, the road itself is a contributing factor. Poorly designed or marked roads can confuse drivers and lead to accidents.
  • Cargo problems—Accidents can occur when cargo is improperly loaded or unevenly distributed, leading to dangerous imbalances that affect the truck’s handling.

Truck accidents can have devastating consequences, but knowing the causes can help you understand your situation better. If you or someone you love has been injured, it’s important to speak to an experienced Portland semi-truck accident lawyer to discuss your rights and options.

Compensable Injuries in a Truck Accident Claim

In a truck accident claim, several types of injuries can be considered compensable, meaning that you can recover money for the damages you’ve suffered. Some common compensable injuries include:

  • Head and Brain Injuries—Traumatic brain injuries (TBI), concussions, and other head trauma are common in truck accidents and can result in long-term physical and cognitive disabilities.
  • Spinal Cord and Back Injuries—Injuries to the spine or back can lead to chronic pain, paralysis, or mobility issues. These injuries often require expensive ongoing treatments or surgeries.
  • Broken Bones—Fractures can result from the force of a truck collision and may require extensive rehabilitation, leaving you unable to work for a long period.
  • Internal Injuries—The impact of a truck accident can cause damage to internal organs, leading to life-threatening conditions that require immediate medical attention.
  • Soft Tissue Injuries—These include injuries to muscles, ligaments, and tendons, such as whiplash or sprains, which can cause lingering pain and require physical therapy.
  • Cuts, Bruises, and Burns—While these may seem less severe, deep lacerations or burns can result in significant medical bills, scarring, or permanent disfigurement.

If you’ve suffered any of these injuries—or others—and are dealing with mounting medical bills, missed work, and emotional stress, you may be entitled to compensation. A successful truck accident claim can help cover the cost of medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. However, pursuing this compensation can be complex, which is why working with a Portland truck accident attorney is essential to help ensure that you recover comprehensive damages for current and future losses.

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Getting Our Clients REAL RESULTS

$1,000,000.00

Pedestrian Accident

$920,000.00

Car Accident

$900,000.00

Motorcycle Accident

$800,000.00

Truck Accident

$575,000.00

Premises Liability

$500,000.00

Dangerous Premises

$400,000.00

Dog Bite

$400,000.00

Motorcycle Accident

$350,000.00

Car Accident

$350,000.00

Motorcycle Accident

Liability and Your Truck Accident Lawsuit

Under Maine’s comparative negligence laws, if you are found to hold 50% or more of the blame for your accident, you may not be eligible to seek compensation. Furthermore, any percentage of fault assigned to you can reduce the amount of your final settlement. For example, if you’re found to be 10% at fault, that percentage will be deducted from your recovery amount.

The fault for a truck accident may be shared among multiple parties, including:

  • The truck driver
  • The trucking company that employs the driver
  • The owner of the truck or vehicle fleet
  • The manufacturer of the truck or its parts (in cases of mechanical failure)
  • The company that leased the truck
  • The shipping company responsible for loading the cargo
  • The company that performs maintenance on the truck

Each of these parties may play a role in contributing to the accident, making it essential to work with a lawyer who understands the complexities of truck accident claims. By carefully investigating the incident, your attorney can help establish which parties are responsible and hold them accountable.

Our Experienced Maine Truck Accident Attorneys

Attorney James C. Beardsley of Lowry & Associates

Attorney James C. Beardsley

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Attorney Mary K. Larsen

Attorney Mary K. Larsen

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Attorney Ashley H. Winslow

Attorney Ashley H. Winslow

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Attorney Colin Reilly

Attorney Colin B. Reilly

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Why Hire a Truck Accident Lawyer?

After a truck accident, you may be dealing with physical pain, emotional trauma, and financial stress from medical bills and lost wages. Navigating the legal system on your own can add even more pressure to an already difficult situation. This is where hiring a truck accident lawyer in Portland can make a significant difference.

Truck accidents are not like typical car accidents. Multiple parties could be responsible, including the truck driver, the trucking company, the manufacturer of the truck or its parts, and even the cargo loading company. Establishing who is at fault requires an in-depth investigation and legal knowledge. A truck accident lawyer can help you identify all the liable parties and build a strong case on your behalf.

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether, especially in complex cases like truck accidents. Without legal representation, you may find yourself facing tactics designed to reduce the compensation you’re entitled to under the law. An experienced lawyer can negotiate aggressively on your behalf to ensure that the insurance companies don’t take advantage of you.

A knowledgeable truck accident lawyer will help calculate the full value of your claim, taking into account medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any future rehabilitation needs. By working with an attorney, you are more likely to secure the compensation necessary to recover fully from your injuries.

Lowry & Associates has been helping clients in Maine since 1971. Our team understands the unique challenges of truck accident cases and is dedicated to ensuring that our clients receive the compensation they are entitled to. We are available 24/7 to take your call and provide a free consultation to discuss your legal options.

Hiring a truck accident attorney can relieve the legal burden on your shoulders so that you can focus on healing. Let Lowry & Associates in Portland, ME fight for the full compensation you may deserve.

See What Our Clients Are Saying About Us

5 Star Reviews

I was very satisfied with the work you guys did for me.  Honesty was the key which makes you guys a step above the rest!

-Joseph K.
5 Star Reviews

The injuries from this experience caused me to lose an entire year from my life. The company responsible for this accident cared nothing about my well-being and refused to work with me. Despite the odds, your firm was willing to take my case. The staff that handled my case was absolutely courteous, friendly, and appeared interested in me and my well-being. I would highly recommend your firm. Thank you so much for your kind and friendly service.

-Rita B.
5 Star Reviews

Things were explained to me in terms I could understand.  Your people worked patiently with me, and I was never made to feel out of the loop!  No question in my mind, I will highly recommend your firm!

-Serena J.
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 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

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

Two different doctors involved in my treatment had prior dealings with your firm.  Both commented on how impressed they were with the high standards of honesty and integrity of your firm.

-Diane K.
5 Star Reviews

I really can’t comment on how to improve yourselves, but just to keep up with the way you handled my case.  I recommend you to all of my friends; it’s a pleasure knowing you’re out there!

-Michael S.
5 Star Reviews

Everyone was very understanding, and they all knew me by my first name, it was a very comfortable place to go!

-Bonnie M.

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How Much Are Most Truck Accident Settlements?

The value of a truck accident settlement depends on factors like:

  • the severity of injuries
  • the extent of property damage
  • liability

Truck accidents often result in higher settlements due to the serious nature of injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or even death. Compensation may cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. Not only will a settlement cover current and past losses, but the right attorney will help you explore what damages you may incur in the future so that you can recover those as well.

In the tragic event of a wrongful death, families may also pursue damages for funeral costs, loss of companionship, and future financial support. While no settlement can replace the loss of a loved one, working with an experienced truck accident lawyer in Portland can help ensure you receive the compensation entitled to you under the law. An attorney can guide you through this challenging process and help ease the financial burdens associated with the accident.

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Types of Trucks & Accidents

Truck accidents can take many forms, depending on the type of truck involved and the nature of the crash. The size and function of large trucks often exacerbate the severity of the accident. Here are some of the most common types of trucks and accidents involved in collisions:

Common Types of Big Trucks

  • 18-Wheelers / Semi-Trucks—These large trucks are used to haul freight across long distances. Due to their size and weight, accidents involving semi-trucks can be particularly devastating.
  • Tanker Trucks—These trucks carry liquids or gases, sometimes hazardous materials. In the event of a crash, tanker trucks pose additional risks such as spills, fires, or explosions.
  • Flatbed Trucks—These vehicles have open beds that carry oversized or heavy loads. If cargo is not properly secured, it can lead to accidents where debris falls onto the road or strikes other vehicles.
  • Dump Trucks—Commonly used in construction, dump trucks haul loose materials such as gravel or dirt. Their high center of gravity makes them more prone to rollover accidents.
  • Delivery Trucks—Box trucks or delivery vehicles, frequently seen in urban areas, often cause accidents due to the frequent stopping and starting of deliveries.

Common Types of Truck Accidents

  • Head-on collisions—These occur when a truck crashes directly into another vehicle, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities.
  • Sideswipe accidents—This type of crash happens when a truck makes contact with the side of another vehicle, potentially causing the smaller vehicle to lose control.
  • Rear-end collisions—A truck rear-ending a smaller vehicle can cause devastating injuries due to the size and weight disparity between the two vehicles.
  • Rollover accidents—Large trucks, especially those carrying heavy or improperly balanced loads, are more prone to tipping over, which can result in catastrophic damage to nearby vehicles.
  • T-bone accidents—These crashes occur when a truck hits another vehicle from the side, often at intersections, and can result in serious injuries to the vehicle occupants.

How To Choose the Right Truck Accident Lawyer in Portland, ME

Choosing the right truck accident attorneys in Portland can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. When looking for the right attorney, here are some key factors to consider:

  1. Experience in Truck Accident Cases—Truck accidents involve more complexity than standard car accidents, particularly when it comes to establishing liability. Look for a lawyer with a proven track record of handling truck accident claims successfully.
  2. Knowledge of Local Laws—Your lawyer should be well-versed in Maine’s trucking regulations and personal injury laws to help navigate the intricacies of your case.
  3. Resources for Thorough Investigations—A skilled attorney should have the resources and network of professionals necessary to investigate every aspect of the accident, from securing accident reports to hiring expert witnesses when needed.
  4. Clear Communication—Your attorney should be someone who listens to your concerns, answers your questions, and keeps you updated throughout the legal process.
  5. Proven Negotiation Skills—Truck accident claims often involve negotiating with multiple insurance companies and potentially large corporations. Lawyers with strong negotiation skills will ensure that you aren’t pressured into accepting a low settlement.

By selecting a lawyer with these qualifications, you can feel confident that your case will be handled professionally and that your rights will be protected. Reach out today to find out what your case is worth, what options are available to you, and whether our office can maximize your claim. There’s no cost to get started!

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