Catastrophic Injuries

April 26, 2024

Multi-Vehicle Accident Shuts Down Maine Turnpike

Multi-vehicle accidents, often referred to as pile-ups or chain-reaction collisions, can be some of the most chaotic and devastating events on the road. In the bustling thoroughfares of Maine, where traffic congestion and adverse weather conditions are not uncommon, these accidents pose a significant risk to motorists.

According to a recent article, a multi-vehicle crash shut down the southbound Maine Turnpike for over four hours this morning. The crash has been described as “severe” and witnesses described a Life Flight helicopter landing at the scene.

Understanding Multi-Vehicle Accidents:

October 30, 2023

Preventing Burn Injuries: A Guide to Fire Safety in Maine

by Peter Thompson & Associates

Accidents happen, but when they result in burn injuries, the physical, emotional, and financial toll can be overwhelming. According to a recent article, a camping trip turned into a nightmare when a 46-year-old woman sustained severe burns attempting to start a campfire at D&R Campground in China. Despite immediate medical attention, the victim succumbed to her injuries after being transferred to Maine Medical Center in Portland. This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety, particularly in the great outdoors.

Choosing the Right Fire Site:

When camping, it’s crucial to select an appropriate location for your campfire. Look for designated fire rings or pits, or create a clear space by removing any flammable materials within a 10-foot radius.

October 23, 2023

Motorcycle Accidents: Causes, Consequences, and Compensation

by Peter Thompson & Associates

Motorcycle accidents can be devastating, often resulting in severe injuries or even the loss of life. According to a recent article, a multiple-vehicle crash occurred in York, Maine, involving two cars and a motorcycle. The incident unfolded when the motorcycle, traveling eastbound along the Maine Turnpike, collided with an SUV making a left turn onto Spur Road. Another SUV subsequently collided with the vehicles involved.

While the other drivers involved in the crash escaped with relatively minor injuries, the operator of the motorcycle tragically lost his life. The incident is currently under investigation, highlighting the importance of uncovering the underlying causes of motorcycle accidents.

October 17, 2023

Navigating the Complex Terrain of Brain Injuries: A Guide to Compensation

by Peter Thompson & Associates

Accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, and when they involve the head, the consequences can be severe and life-altering. Brain injuries are some of the most devastating outcomes of accidents, impacting not only the victim but also their loved ones. At Peter Thompson and Associates, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that a brain injury can take.

Understanding Brain Injuries

A brain injury, also known as a traumatic brain injury (TBI), occurs when an external force injures the brain. This can happen due to various causes:

October 11, 2023

Navigating Murky Waters: Understanding Boating Accidents in Maine

by Peter Thompson & Associates

Maine’s coastline, dotted with serene lakes and winding rivers, entices boating enthusiasts from near and far. However, amidst the idyllic settings, the potential for boating accidents exists, casting a shadow on these waters. From collisions to capsizings, the aftermath of such incidents can be devastating, leaving victims grappling with physical, emotional, and financial burdens. Boating accidents, while relatively uncommon, can have devastating consequences.

According to a recent article, a historic schooner suffered a catastrophic accident after returning from a four-day cruise off the coast of Rockland, Maine. The main mast of the Grace Bailey splintered, leaving one dead and several individuals injured.

September 26, 2023

Farmingdale Tragedy: Understanding Bus Accidents and Your Rights

by Peter Thompson & Associates

According to a recent article, a charter bus carrying high school students to a band camp met with a devastating accident on a New York highway. The incident claimed the lives of two adults and left several others seriously injured.

The ill-fated bus was part of a caravan carrying students, band members, color guard, and dancers from Farmingdale High School on Long Island. Their annual pilgrimage to a camp in Greeley, Pennsylvania, ended abruptly only 30 minutes away from their destination. The accident occurred on Interstate 84 in Wawayanda, a town located about 45 miles northwest of New York City. Preliminary investigations suggest that a tire failure may have been a contributing factor in the bus losing control and veering off the road, according to Gov. Kathy Hochul.

August 9, 2023

Excessive Speed Car Accidents: A Deadly Menace on Maine Roads

by Peter Thompson & Associates

Tragedy struck the peaceful roads of Maine once again as two young lives were cut short in a devastating car crash. According to a recent article, two young men were driving together on Tenney Hill Road around 7 a.m. on June 5 when they collided with another vehicle and then hit a cluster of trees. One was pronounced dead at the scene and another was airlifted to Maine Medical Center in Portland. He died as a result of his injuries a week later.

The incident serves as a grim reminder of the dangers of excessive speed and the havoc it can wreak on our roadways. At Peter Thompson & Associates, we are deeply saddened by this loss and remain committed to raising awareness about the perils of reckless driving.

July 25, 2023

Dog Attacks: Understanding Liability and What to Do If You’re Bitten

by Peter Thompson & Associates

Dog attacks can be terrifying and life-altering experiences, affecting victims physically, emotionally, and financially. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated 4.5 million Americans experience dog bites annually. Shockingly, a staggering 20% of these incidents demand immediate medical intervention due to the severity of the injuries.

According to a recent article, a six-year-old child was viciously attacked by a dog in Chesterville, Maine. The child was playing outdoors when an unrestrained dog lunged at them, causing severe injuries, particularly to the face and upper body. Fortunately, quick thinking by a nearby adult prevented the situation from escalating further. The child was promptly rushed to a nearby hospital, where they underwent emergency surgery.

Liability in Dog Attacks:

In Maine, dog owners can be held liable for injuries caused by their pets under certain circumstances. Maine operates under a “strict liability” statute when it comes to dog attacks. This means that dog owners are held responsible for injuries inflicted by their dogs, even if the dog has never displayed aggressive behavior before, and the owner had no prior knowledge of their dog’s potential to bite.

July 12, 2023

Tragic ATV Accident Leaves One Dead

by Peter Thompson & Associates

ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) accidents can lead to severe injuries and tragic consequences. As a personal injury law firm based in Maine, we understand the devastating impact these accidents can have on individuals and their families.

According to a recent news article, a 16-year-old individual from Oakland, Maine tragically lost their life in an ATV accident on Manchester Road. The accident occurred when the ATV veered off the road and struck a tree. Emergency responders were called to the scene, but unfortunately, the teenager succumbed to their injuries.

The Prevalence of ATV Accidents in Maine:

ATVs are popular recreational vehicles in Maine, providing an exciting way to explore the state’s beautiful landscapes. However, with increased usage comes an inherent risk of accidents. According to the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, ATV accidents have been a recurring issue in recent years, resulting in injuries and fatalities.

May 31, 2023

Maine Head-On Collision Leaves Two Dead

by Peter Thompson & Associates

Head-on collisions are among the most devastating types of car accidents, often resulting in severe injuries and fatalities. For residents of Maine, where highways like I-295 and the Maine Turnpike are frequently traveled, understanding the causes and consequences of head-on collisions is crucial.

According to a recent article, a tragic head-on collision occurred on I-295 near Falmouth Exit 9 on the northbound highway over Memorial Day weekend that left two dead and one injured. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by head-on collisions, as two vehicles collided with great force. Such incidents highlight the urgent need for increased awareness, safety measures, and legal protection for victims involved in head-on collisions.

Causes of Head-On Collisions