Drugged driving is a widespread problem in Maine. Like alcohol, drugs hinder a person’s ability to safely drive a car. Prescription drugs, which are commonly used, are known to cause drowsiness, confusion, dizziness, and cognitive impairment. Marijuana may delay a driver’s reaction time and impair judgment of time and distance. Illegal narcotics may cause a...
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A Maine Lawyer on the Rise of E-bikes and the Best Ideas to Avoid Crashes
Electric bikes have been gaining in popularity across the state of Maine, according to the Portland Press Herald. Many people prefer the convenience e-bikes offer and reap the financial benefits of gas savings. The assisted pedaling even allows people with health conditions to get around by bike. According to Ben Sawyer, the manager at CycleMania...
Read MoreMotorcycle Safety Tips for Riding in Maine
As the weather continues to get warmer, more motorcyclists will take to Maine’s open roads. While riding can be an enjoyable hobby, lifestyle, or mode of transportation, it can also bring with it a slew of risks. Safety tips for the coming riding season Whether you’re an old-timer or a rookie rider in Maine, you...
Read MoreMaine Lawmakers to Crack Down on Distracted Driving
Any kind of distracted driving is dangerous, especially when the use of a hand-held device is involved. Many safety advocates emphasize the dangers of texting and driving. However, not all distracted drivers are actually texting with their devices. They could be browsing the web, taking photos, or streaming videos. In order to address this problem,...
Read MoreMaine Ranks No. 1 for Having the Worst Drivers in the Nation
Whether driving Maine’s seacoast roads or busy Portland streets, you may have seen a vehicle whiz by you at a dangerous speed or negligently switch lanes – nearly causing an accident. If you think Maine is a dangerous state to drive in, it’s not your imagination. It’s supported by staggering crash statistics. What makes Maine...
Read MoreTraffic Fatalities in Maine Drop in 2018: An Attorney Discusses
Maine has seen an improvement in traffic safety. In 2018, there were 140 traffic fatalities statewide, according to Portland Press Herald. This marked a significant drop from 2017, which saw 173 deaths. What’s causing the reduction in traffic fatalities? Since speeding, aggressive driving, distracted driving, and impaired driving are still prevalent, the specific reason for...
Read MoreA Maine Attorney Discusses Rear-end Accidents and Whiplash
A distracted driver might have been changing the radio station or sending a text message when he or she struck your vehicle from behind. It could have happened for another reason such as speeding, reckless driving, or slippery road conditions. Although who was at fault may be clear, a rear-end collision victim's injury may be...
Read MoreA Maine Attorney Discusses The Science Of Car Crash Injuries
Any car accident can leave someone with serious injuries. Science has helped us understand what happens to people in a car crash and how safety measures can help reduce or prevent injuries. The Law Offices of Joe Bornstein has been helping injured Mainers since 1974, and we have seen the damage different types of car...
Read MoreCommon Autumn Road Hazards For Maine Drivers
The month of November brings shorter days, colder temperatures and slippery road conditions. All are seasonal hazards for Maine drivers. According to a 2016 report by the Maine Department of Transportation (MDOT), November had the third highest percentage of traffic accidents (9%) between 2006 and 2015. December had the highest percentage at 12 percent. November...
Read MoreDistracted Walking Remains Dangerous, But Less Prevalent Than Once Thought
On the surface, distracted pedestrians appear to be their own worst enemies. We think we know them: the guy who regularly walks against the red light. The woman who steps off the curb and never looks up from her phone. The texting teen who thinks crosswalks are simply a suggestion. After all, the number of pedestrians...
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