Maine Injury Lawyer Blog

September 6, 2023

Ensuring Safety: Exploring Structural Support Failures and Legal Remedies

Safety is paramount when it comes to the places we live and frequent daily. Unfortunately, structural support failures can lead to catastrophic accidents that disrupt lives and cause immense harm.

A recent incident in Augusta serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by structural support failures. According to a report by the Portland Press Herald, a porch on Washington Street collapsed, leading to the displacement of ten individuals. The incident emphasizes the critical need to ensure the stability and safety of structures to prevent such accidents from occurring.

Common Causes of Structural Support Failures

August 24, 2023

Protecting Maine’s Children: Holding Negligent Parties Accountable for Child Injuries

by Peter Thompson & Associates

Childhood is a time of boundless energy and curiosity, but unfortunately, accidents can occur that disrupt these precious moments. When a child sustains an injury due to someone else’s negligence, the emotional and financial toll on families can be devastating. A recent incident at Old Orchard Beach has shed light on the potential dangers children can face while enjoying seemingly innocent amusement rides.

According to a recent article, witnesses described a harrowing scene a young boy tumbled from the Superstar ride and was struck by a moving cart before the ride came to a halt.

Injuries to Children: A Devastating Consequence

Child injuries can have far-reaching consequences, impacting both the child and their family. Physical injuries can result in pain, medical expenses, and long-term health issues, while emotional trauma can leave lasting scars. Parents often find themselves facing a daunting array of challenges, from managing medical care to dealing with potential legal issues.

August 16, 2023

Chain Reaction Crashes: Unraveling the Legal Maze with Peter Thompson & Associates

by Peter Thompson & Associates

According to a recent article a chain reaction crash occurred in Westbrook, Maine when a driver failed to yield at an intersection, triggering a domino effect that involved multiple vehicles. The consequences were severe, leaving several people injured and vehicles mangled. Such incidents not only cause physical harm but also leave emotional and financial scars that can last a lifetime.

Understanding Chain Reaction Crashes

Chain reaction crashes, often referred to as multi-vehicle collisions or pile-ups occur when a series of vehicles collide in a sequence of impacts. These crashes can happen on highways, at intersections, or in heavy traffic, and they typically involve three or more vehicles. The initial collision sets off a chain reaction as vehicles behind the point of impact are unable to stop in time, leading to a cascade of crashes.

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.

August 2, 2023

Stay Awake, Stay Safe: Understanding Accidents Caused by Drowsy Driving

by Peter Thompson & Associates

Accidents have the unsettling ability to disrupt lives in an instant, leaving a trail of devastation in their wake. A recent article from CentralMaine.come serves as a sobering reminder of just how swiftly lives can be transformed by a catastrophic collision. In Norridgewock, a driver fell asleep at the wheel and crossed over the center line, striking two other cars, injuring four people. All three vehicles were completely destroyed in the crash. Thankfully, there were no fatalities.

The Alarming Reality:

Drowsy driving is more than just a momentary lapse in attention; it is a leading cause of accidents on our roadways. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drowsy driving is responsible for an estimated 72,000 crashes and 800 fatalities annually in the United States. Maine, despite its serene landscapes and tranquil settings, is not immune to the perils of drowsy 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 19, 2023

Understanding the Maine Liquor Liability Act

by Peter Thompson & Associates

Maine’s Liquor Liability Act is a crucial piece of legislation that aims to hold establishments accountable for overserving clearly intoxicated customers. The law holds these establishments partially responsible for the consequences of their patrons’ actions.

According to a recent article, a tragic car crash in Maine has sparked legal action against four bars and restaurants for their alleged involvement in the incident. The lawsuit filed by the parents of a 23-year-old individual involves multiple establishments, including a pub, a sports bar, a gentlemen’s club, and a popular restaurant chain. The legal action claims that these establishments failed to cease serving alcohol to a 22-year-old individual, who was visibly intoxicated and tragically lost his life in the ensuing car crash.

Maine Liquor Liability Laws Explained:

Maine, like many other states, has specific laws in place to hold establishments accountable for their actions when serving alcohol. These laws are designed to protect individuals from the consequences of alcohol-related accidents and injuries.

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.

July 6, 2023

Train Derailment in Rural Maine Raises Safety Concerns

by Peter Thompson & Associates

Hazardous waste poses significant risks to human health, the environment, and communities. As a personal injury law firm dedicated to protecting the rights of individuals in Maine, we understand the severe consequences that can result from hazardous waste incidents.

According to a recent article, a freight train carrying hazardous materials derailed in Sandwich Academy Grant Township in Somerset County, raising concerns about railway safety and the transportation of dangerous substances. The derailment serves as a reminder of the potential dangers associated with the mishandling or release of hazardous waste and highlights the importance of implementing robust safety measures and adhering to regulations to prevent accidents and protect communities from the harmful effects of such incidents.

The Hazards of Hazardous Waste:

Hazardous waste poses significant risks to both human health and the environment. It can contain toxic substances, flammable materials, corrosive chemicals, or other dangerous components that can cause serious harm if released or mishandled. The recent freight train derailment highlights the potential magnitude of these hazards and underscores the need for stringent safety measures to protect communities from the harmful effects of such incidents.

June 30, 2023

Understanding Maine Car Insurance Requirements

by Peter Thompson & Associates

In the event of a Maine car accident, your vehicle may endure serious property damage. To avoid paying significant out-of-pocket costs, it is important to protect yourself with auto insurance. In addition to purchasing auto insurance, you should learn more about Maine’s insurance laws to make sure you have adequate coverage in every situation you may encounter.

What Types of Auto Insurance Do You Have to Buy in Maine?

Under Maine’s insurance laws, anyone who owns or operates a vehicle in the state must carry minimum policy amounts for several types of insurance. These coverage limits do not represent the amount you pay upfront. Rather, the limits are the maximum amount your insurance company will pay in the event of an accident. Specifically, drivers must carry liability insurance, medical payments coverage, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. If you are at fault for an accident, liability insurance will pay for another person’s injuries and property damage resulting from the crash. Under Maine law, drivers must carry $50,000 per person/$100,000 per accident for bodily injury liability, as well as $25,000 for property damage. Additionally, medical payments cover your medical expenses and your passengers’ medical expenses in the event of an auto accident. The law requires Maine drivers to purchase at least $2,000 per person in medical payments coverage. Drivers can also purchase $5,000, $10,000, and $25,000 coverage limits without a significant bump in cost.