The open roads of Maine, while scenic, can also be the site of serious truck accidents. Sharing the road with large commercial vehicles presents inherent risks, and when accidents happen, the consequences can be devastating.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident in Maine, understanding your rights and seeking experienced legal representation is crucial.
The Unique Challenges of Truck Accidents
Truck accidents are rarely simple fender-benders. The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks often lead to catastrophic injuries, complex investigations, and significant financial losses. Unlike car accidents, truck accident cases often involve multiple parties, including:
- The Truck Driver: Their negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence, may be a factor.
- The Trucking Company: They may be liable for negligent hiring, inadequate training, or failing to maintain their vehicles.
- The Cargo Company: Improper loading or unsecured cargo can contribute to accidents.
- Manufacturers: Defective truck parts can also cause or contribute to accidents.
Identifying all responsible parties and proving negligence requires a thorough investigation, often involving:
- Analyzing Electronic Log Records: To determine if the driver violated hours-of-service regulations designed to prevent fatigue.
- Reviewing Maintenance Records: To identify any mechanical issues that may have contributed to the accident.
- Examining Police Reports and Witness Statements: To establish the sequence of events and determine fault.
- Consulting with Accident Reconstruction Experts: To recreate the accident and determine its cause.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Bangor, Maine
Several factors can contribute to truck accidents. Understanding these common causes can help you assess the circumstances of your accident:
- Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road can lead to driver fatigue, impairing judgment and slowing reaction times.
- Distracted Driving: Texting, using cell phones, or other distractions can take a driver’s focus off the road.
- Speeding: Exceeding speed limits or driving too fast for conditions is a major cause of truck accidents.
- Improper Lane Changes: Trucks have large blind spots, and improper lane changes can lead to collisions.
- Equipment Failure: Brake failure, tire blowouts, and other mechanical issues can cause a driver to lose control.
- Improper Loading: Unsecured or unbalanced loads can shift, causing the truck to become unstable.
- Driving Under the Influence (OUI): Driving a truck under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and extremely dangerous.
Your Legal Rights After a Maine Truck Accident
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident that wasn’t your fault, you have the right to seek compensation for your losses. This may include:
- Medical Expenses: Past and future costs related to your injuries.
- Lost Wages: Income you’ve lost due to being unable to work.
- Property Damage: Costs to repair or replace your vehicle.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Other Damages: Including loss of enjoyment of life, and in tragic cases, wrongful death.
There is a statute of limitations in Maine for filing a personal injury lawsuit, which is generally six years from the date of the accident. It’s crucial to contact an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed within the deadline.
VBK Law truck accident attorneys know how to protect your rights after an accident. Our expert truck accident attorneys, Lisa A. Cohn and Seth D. Harrow offer over 55 years of combined accident experience.
The Importance of a Maine Truck Accident Lawyer
Navigating the complexities of a truck accident case can be overwhelming. An experienced Maine truck accident lawyer at VBK Law can provide invaluable assistance by:
- Conducting a thorough investigation: To gather evidence and identify all responsible parties.
- Protecting your rights: Dealing with insurance companies and ensuring you’re not taken advantage of.
- Negotiating a fair settlement: Seeking full and fair compensation for your losses.
- Taking your case to court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached.
At VBK, we understand Maine’s truck accident laws, know how to build a strong case, and have the resources to fight for your best interests. We can handle the legal complexities, allowing you to focus on your recovery. Contact VBK today for a free consultation.
Finding the Right Lawyer
When choosing a Maine truck accident lawyer, look for:
- Experience: A lawyer with a proven track record of handling truck accident cases.
- Resources: A firm with the financial resources to conduct a thorough investigation and hire necessary experts.
- Compassion: An attorney who understands the emotional and financial toll of a truck accident and will treat you with empathy and respect.
- Communication: A lawyer who will keep you informed throughout the process and answer your questions promptly.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident in Maine, don’t face the aftermath alone. Contact a qualified Maine truck accident lawyer at VBK today. Our firm offers decades of proven experience protecting your rights and fighting for the compensation you deserve.
