Maine Injury Lawyer Blog
According to a recent article, a construction accident near Auburn City Hall led to a fire and road closures Thursday afternoon during rush hour. The incident occurred around 1:30 p.m. while crews were installing a sewer liner as part of a storm drain improvement project. According to Auburn Fire Deputy Chief Matt Fifield, a fueling mishap likely triggered the fire, which ignited the flammable resin-based liner being installed in a manhole on Court Street. Flames were visible shooting from the manhole when emergency crews arrived.
The fire, which also threatened a nearby truck connected to the liner, took a considerable amount of time to bring under control. One worker sustained burns to his arms and was transported to Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston for treatment. As of 5:30 p.m., sections of Court and Turner Streets remained closed due to the incident.
Construction sites are inherently dangerous, even when safety protocols are followed. Workers operate heavy machinery, handle hazardous materials, and often perform tasks at dangerous heights or in confined spaces. Unfortunately, when accidents happen, they can lead to serious injuries, long-term disabilities, or even death. At Peter Thompson & Associates, we’re dedicated to helping injured workers and their families seek justice and full compensation after construction site accidents in Maine.
Common Causes of Construction Accidents
Construction sites in Maine—whether in bustling cities like Portland or smaller towns like Auburn—are often the scene of preventable injuries. Some of the most common causes include:
- Falls from scaffolding, ladders, or roofs
- Falling tools or debris
- Electrocutions and fires
- Trench collapses
- Heavy machinery accidents
- Exposure to toxic chemicals
- Failure to follow safety regulations or provide proper training
Who Is Liable for a Construction Accident?
Determining liability can be complex. In many cases, more than one party may be responsible, including:
- Employers
- Contractors or subcontractors
- Property owners
- Equipment manufacturers
While workers’ compensation typically covers on-the-job injuries, it may not fully address the pain, suffering, or long-term impact of an injury. In some situations, injured workers may have the right to file a third-party personal injury claim to pursue additional damages.
What to Do If You’re Injured on a Construction Site
If you or a loved one is injured in a construction accident, take the following steps:
- Seek medical attention immediately.
- Report the injury to your employer or site supervisor.
- Document the scene, if possible, with photos and witness information.
- Do not sign any documents or accept settlements before consulting an attorney.
Why Choose Peter Thompson & Associates?
Our team has decades of experience representing injured workers across Maine. We understand how construction accident cases differ from typical personal injury claims and are prepared to investigate thoroughly, work with experts, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Whether your injury resulted from a negligent contractor, unsafe equipment, or a violation of OSHA standards, we’re here to help. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a construction accident, don’t wait. Call Peter Thompson & Associates at 1-207-874-0909 or visit our website to schedule a free consultation. Let our proven team advocate for your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.