Portland, Maine Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

We help injured bikers pursue justice

Motorcycle accidents in Maine are often not ordinary traffic incidents. They can have life-changing consequences. Because motorcycles are smaller than other vehicles on the road, bikers can get seriously injured when they’re hit by a car, truck or another type of vehicle.

At Romanow Law Group, our Portland, Maine motorcycle accident attorneys recognize the challenges faced by injured motorcyclists. We understand the physical and emotional pain that follows such an event. We are here to offer our support and legal expertise. As passionate advocates for motorcycle riders’ rights in Maine, we are committed to seeking justice and fighting for the compensation you deserve.

Whether you were involved in a collision with another vehicle on Route 1, a hazardous road condition caused your accident on I-95, or you were a victim of negligence or reckless driving on another road or highway, we’re on your side. Our team of experienced Portland, Maine motorcycle accident lawyers has a deep understanding of the factors involved in these complex cases. We are ready to build a strong case and pursue the maximum compensation for you.

What to do after a motorcycle crash in Maine

After experiencing a motorcycle crash, you may feel lost on what you should do next. The moments following the accident can be disorienting and overwhelming. But you need to act fast to protect your health and your rights. Take the following steps:

Seek medical attention: Prioritize your health and safety by seeking immediate medical attention. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, you should still get checked out by a medical professional at the scene. Some injuries may not have symptoms right away. Medical evaluation is the only way to learn the full extent of your injuries. You should also continue to get medical attention after the accident to monitor your recovery progress and have the resources to address any complications that may arise.
Contact law enforcement: Call the police to report the accident. They will arrive at the scene, assess the situation, and create an official accident report. This report can serve as valuable evidence when seeking compensation for your damages. This report is officially called a State of Maine Crash Report. Make sure you get a copy of your accident report. If you’re not sure how to do so, our Maine law firm can help.
Exchange information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver involved. Be sure to get their name, phone number, address, license plate number, and insurance details.
Don’t discuss the accident: Once you have exchanged information with the other driver, don’t say anything else to them or others at the crash site. Anything you say could later be used against you.
Avoid discussing fault: While it’s important to comply with police and provide basic information, it’s crucial to avoid admitting fault or making detailed statements about the accident. Anything you say can potentially be used against you later during the claims process.
Gather evidence: If you are physically able to do so, document the accident scene by taking photos or videos. Capture details such as vehicle positions, road conditions, skid marks, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. Also, collect contact information from any witnesses who saw the accident occur.
Notify your insurance company: Report your accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with accurate details of the crash and follow their instructions for filing a claim. Remember to stick to the facts and avoid speculating or assigning blame.
Talk to a motorcycle accident attorney: A knowledgeable motorcycle accident attorney can protect your rights and help you navigate your way through the complex legal process. We can provide guidance, investigate your accident, and fight for the money you deserve. If you want assistance talking to your insurance company, contact a lawyer before you do so. We can speak to them on your behalf.

Types of motorcycle crashes our Maine law firm handles

No matter the type of motorcycle accident you were involved in, you deserve to be compensated for your pain and suffering. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, trust our experienced team to fight for your rights. Our law firm handles the following types of motorcycle accidents:

Rear-end accident.
Head-on collisions.
T-bone accidents.
Intersection accidents.
Left-turn accidents.
Speeding.
Drunk driving accidents.
Fatal motorcycle accidents.
Distracted driving.
Red light running.
Hit-and-runs.
Multi-vehicle pileups.
Defective parts.
Dooring accidents.

In Maine, several factors contribute to motorcycle accidents on the roads. Some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents are:

Distracted Driving: When motorists divert their attention from the road, whether by using their phones, eating, or engaging in other activities, they can miss a rider on the road and cause a crash.
Failure to Yield: Many motorcycle accidents occur when other vehicles fail to yield the right of way to motorcyclists. These accidents often happen at intersections when drivers make left turns without properly checking for oncoming motorcycles.
Lane Changes and Merging: Motorcycle accidents frequently happen when vehicles change lanes or merge without adequately checking blind spots. Motorcycles are smaller than cars, making them more challenging to spot, especially in heavy traffic.
Speeding: Excessive speed is a significant contributing factor to motorcycle accidents. When drivers exceed the speed limit, they reduce their reaction time and increase the severity of collisions with motorcycles.
Impaired Driving: Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a dangerous behavior that endangers all road users, including motorcyclists. Impaired drivers have impaired judgment, reduced coordination, and decreased reaction time, making them more likely to cause accidents.
Road Hazards: Motorcycles are more susceptible to road hazards than other vehicles. Uneven surfaces, potholes, loose gravel, or debris on the road pose greater risks for motorcyclists, leading to loss of control and accidents.
Defective Parts: Faulty brakes, tires, steering components, or other defective parts can lead to sudden malfunctions, loss of control, or unexpected accidents.

Motorcycle crashes can cause serious, life-altering injuries

Motorcycle accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, often of a more severe nature compared to other types of accidents. The vulnerability of motorcyclists on the road leaves them at a high risk of significant injuries, even in relatively minor collisions. Some of the most common injuries a rider can sustain from a motorcycle accident includes:

Concussions and other traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
Spinal cord injuries
Broken bones and fractures
Road rash
Internal injuries
Soft tissue injuries
Amputations
Bikers arm and other nerve damage

What damages can you pursue for a motorcycle accident?

In a motorcycle accident, victims may be entitled to pursue various types of damages (legal term for financial compensation) for their losses. Common types of damages you may be able to recover money for after a motorcycle accident include:

Medical expenses
Lost wages
Pain and suffering
Property damage
Rehabilitation and therapy
Loss of earning capacity
Emotional distress
Loss of enjoyment of life
Disfigurement and scarring
Wrongful death damages (in fatal motorcycle accidents)

Each case is unique, and the specific damages that can be pursued will depend on the circumstances of the accident such as the extent of the injuries sustained. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney will account for all relevant damages to ensure the compensation amount they strive for covers all your losses.

Determining compensation

When it comes to determining the average settlement for motorcycle accident claims, it’s important to note that there is no set figure as each case is unique and settlement amounts can vary greatly.

Several key factors are considered when calculating a settlement in a motorcycle accident claim. These factors include:

Fault: The determination of fault plays a crucial role in assessing the settlement amount.
Injury Severity: The severity of your injuries and their impact on your life, including medical expenses, ongoing treatment, rehabilitation, and treatment, will be taken into account. The more severe and long-lasting the injuries, the higher the potential settlement.
Insurance Coverage: The insurance coverage available, both for your motorcycle insurance and the insurance of the at-fault party, can affect the settlement amount.
Choice of Lawyer: The skills, experience, and values of your motorcycle accident lawyer also play a crucial role in negotiating a favorable settlement. The right attorney will fight for your rights and maximize the settlement amount on your behalf, while communicating with you and taking your input and worries into consideration.

Motorcycle laws

Any Maine resident with a valid motorcycle permit or license is allowed to ride a motorcycle. Non-residents can also ride in Maine if they have a motorcycle license from their state or country of residence. Additionally, individuals who are at least 16 years old and possess a permit from another state or country are permitted to ride on Maine roads.

Currently, the State of Maine has specific requirements for helmet usage in Maine include:

Operators under 18 years old, individuals operating with a learner’s motorcycle permit, or those who have completed a driving test within the previous 12 months are required to wear helmets while riding. Additionally, helmets are mandatory for operators of off-road motorcycles under 15 years old.
Passengers riding on a motorcycle or in an attached sidecar who are under 15 years old are also required to wear helmets.
While wearing a helmet usage is required for certain riders, it’s important to note that Maine does not legally mandate the use of eye and face protection, or other protective riding gear. Helmets and other safety gear can prevent some injuries, but you still have a case whether you were wearing a helmet or not.

Take action today with Romanow Law Group

If you or someone you love has been hurt in a motorcycle accident, you understand that there are challenges that lie ahead. Seeking fair compensation and navigating the legal process can be an overwhelming journey. That’s where our dedicated team of motorcycle accident attorneys at Romanow Law Group comes in.

We know that motorcycle accidents are often complicated and can have an intense impact on your life. We possess an in-depth knowledge of Maine’s motorcycle laws and regulations and are well-equipped to handle the most complex motorcycle accident cases that come our way. Our commitment is to provide legal representation tailored to your specific needs.

At Romanow Law Group, we believe in going the extra mile for our clients. We pride ourselves on taking the time to listen to your story and customize our approach accordingly. Our experienced attorneys are passionate about protecting your rights. Learn more and contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a Maine motorcycle accident lawyer you can count on in a crisis.