Taking on a car accident lawsuit can be a difficult journey filled with nuanced legal procedures. Many vital decisions directly impact the outcome of your case. When you find yourself in the unfortunate aftermath of a car accident, you need a law firm on your side that understands the local legal landscape and is willing to fight for the rights of injured people.
At Lowry & Associates, our motor vehicle accident attorneys have over 50 years of combined experience navigating Maine’s legal environment. This guide is designed to break down and simplify the process of a car accident lawsuit in Maine, providing you with a roadmap of what to expect, from the initial consultation through potential litigation or settlement.
When To File a Lawsuit for Car Accident Injuries
Filing a lawsuit for car accident injuries is a significant step beyond merely submitting an insurance claim. While an insurance claim involves negotiating compensation with your or the at-fault party’s insurance company, something we assist our clients with regularly, a lawsuit seeks damages through the court system. Several factors may lead you to file a lawsuit, including:
- Disputed Liability: If you believe the accident wasn’t your fault but you are being blamed for your injuries, a lawsuit can assist in resolving the dispute through legal channels.
- Insufficient Settlement Offer: If the insurance company offers a settlement that doesn’t cover your expenses and losses, a lawsuit may be necessary to pursue fair compensation.
- Serious Injuries: Significant injuries that result in high medical bills, prolonged recovery, or permanent disability often require the comprehensive compensation that a lawsuit can provide.
- Statute of Limitations: In Maine, you have a limited time frame to file a lawsuit for injuries sustained in a car accident. The statute of limitations on Maine car accident lawsuits is typically 6 years, but there are many factors that can affect this time period. Don’t hesitate to get started on the claims process as soon as possible after your accident.
The Legal Process of Pursuing a Car Accident Lawsuit
Embarking on a car accident lawsuit can seem daunting, but understanding the process can make it more manageable. From initial consultations to potential trials, we’re with you every step of the way.
Getting Started With a Free Consultation
The first step in pursuing a car accident lawsuit is to schedule a free consultation with Lowry & Associates. During this meeting, we’ll review your insurance policy and investigate the details of your accident. This initial step is crucial for determining if you have a viable claim and estimating its worth. It’s essential to consult with us before speaking to insurance companies, as they can begin working to discredit you and underpay or deny your claim from the moment you get on the phone.
Developing Your Car Accident Case
After the initial consultation, if you have a claim, we will move forward by meticulously developing your car accident case.
We begin by conducting a thorough investigation into the accident, gathering all necessary evidence, including but not limited to, surveillance footage, witness statements, police reports, and detailed medical records. This evidence not only helps to establish the facts of the case but also the extent of your injuries and the impact on your life.
Simultaneously, we engage with expert witnesses whose testimonies provide an authoritative perspective on critical aspects of your case. These experts may assist in reconstructing the accident scene, detailing the medical implications of your injuries, and quantifying any future financial losses.
Negotiating With Insurance Adjusters
Negotiating with insurance adjusters is a nuanced art. The injury lawyers at Lowry & Associates have extensive experience dealing with insurance companies, protecting our clients from the tricks they employ to reduce claims. Our goal during negotiations is to ensure you receive a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and other associated costs. We’ll advocate on your behalf, using the evidence and expert testimony gathered to strengthen your case.
Taking Your Case to Trial, If Necessary
While many car accident lawsuits are settled out of court, some cases go to trial. If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, we are prepared to take your case to trial to fight for the compensation you deserve. Don’t worry–we will guide you through the trial process, representing your interests and presenting your case with compelling evidence and expert testimonies. We will also make sure you are fully prepared and comfortable with the process.
Receiving Your Settlement
After all the hard work and legal proceedings, the final step in the car accident lawsuit process is receiving your settlement. Your attorney will ensure that the compensation you are entitled to is delivered to you on time. Additionally, your attorney will provide you with valuable advice and guidance on whether to accept the settlement or pursue further legal action if you believe you deserve more. Remember, while the decision is ultimately yours to make, your attorney will leverage their expertise to help you make an informed choice that aligns with your best interests.
Lowry & Associates–Car Accident Attorneys Who Care
Our attorneys have been serving injured individuals in the state of Maine since 1971. We are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation for those involved in a car accident lawsuit.
We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a car accident can take on individuals and families, and we are committed to advocating for your rights and securing the compensation you need to recover and move forward. If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident in Maine, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 207-222-2222. Let us help you navigate the complexities of your car accident lawsuit with the expertise and care you deserve.
