Best Car Accident Lawyers in Portland

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Portland, Maine?

  Portland's Police Department is reachable at 207-874-8479 for routine calls.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Portland, Maine?

  The Maine State Police archives accident reports from Portland and is headquartered at 42 State House Station, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta, Maine 04333-0042. Requests can be made through www1.maine.gov/online/mcrs.

• How much time does a plaintiff in Portland have to file a car accident suit?

  A plaintiff in Portland who sustained injuries in a car crash has six years from the date of the accident to bring a case before the court. If the defendant is a government agency, the claimant must file a formal claim against the offending party within 180 days and has two years from denial to resort to the judiciary.

• What are the usual examples of negligence that a car accident claimant in Portland may allege?

  Negligent drivers in Portland usually drive while distracted or inattentive. They fail to follow traffic signals and are prone to moving beyond the speed limit. The lack of due care is also shown by the manufacturers of automobile parts that release products in a defective state, leading to catastrophic failures on the road.

• What are the common damages a car accident claimant in Portland may ask for?

  A car accident claimant in Portland may recover the cost of repairs to the wrecked vehicle. The liquidated value of medical bills is compensable under law, as well as the wages lost because of the inability to work during the plaintiff's recovery period. In addition, the intangible emotional and mental pain and suffering are bases for restitution.

• Why is it advisable for a car accident victim in Portland to get a lawyer instead of representing oneself?

  It is wise to obtain a lawyer in Portland instead of going to court representing oneself because it is risky to argue and negotiate with insurance adjusters who are disposed toward minimizing payouts. An attorney also has access to teams of paralegals and assistants who are skilled at sifting through medical records and documentary evidence to build a case.

• If a defective seatbelt or airbag causes injuries during a car accident in Portland, what standard of liability applies and what does it mean for a victim's claim?

  Portland follows Maine's product liability laws, which impose strict liability on the manufacturers and sellers of faulty goods. The negligence on the part of these parties is established once the plaintiff presents proof of the product's defects. In practical terms, the defendants' want of care is presumed if airbags and seatbelts fail. The opposition must show that these items were altered in any way to deflect liability.