Injured in a Motorcycle Accident?

Mainers seriously injured rely on our tough-minded Maine motorcycle accident lawyers

A motorcycle accident in Maine can happen in an instant, and injuries can be catastrophic. Unlike occupants of cars who have a steel cage protecting them, motorcyclists have little protection from severe or even fatal motorcycle accident injuries. Motorcycle crashes lead to thousands of deaths and serious injuries every year, and too often, it's the motorist, not the injured rider, who is to blame.

If you or a loved one was injured in a motorcycle accident in Maine, whether on I-95 in Portland or Main Street in Sanford, you need strong legal representation. Rely on the experience and professionalism of the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein. Choose a motorcycle accident lawyer in Maine who works aggressively to obtain the maximum compensation for motorcycle accident victims.

What are the motorcycle laws in Maine?

Motorcycle laws vary from state to state. Maine requires motorcycle riders 17 and younger, first-year license holders, and instructional permit holders to wear helmets. This may reduce the risk of serious injuries or death. Additionally, all riders must wear protective eyewear unless a motorcycle is equipped with a windscreen. Motorcycle riders, like operators of automobiles, are prohibited from driving under the influence of alcohol.

Common motorcycle accident injuries

Drivers and passengers in cars have safety features such as airbags and seatbelts to protect them. Bikers typically have nothing but their clothing and a helmet between them and the pavement. They’re much more likely than people riding in cars to get hurt, and motorcycle injuries can be catastrophic, ranging from minor to severe.

Common motorcycle accident injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI): TBIs are caused by a severe blow or jolt to the head, which can occur during a motorcycle accident even if the rider is wearing a helmet. These injuries range from concussions to severe brain damage, leading to long-term cognitive, physical, and emotional impairments.
• Spinal cord injuries: These injuries result from trauma to the spinal cord, potentially causing partial or complete paralysis below the injury site. Spinal cord injuries can lead to permanent loss of function and sensation, significantly impacting the victim's quality of life.
• Broken bones and fractures: The force of a collision often causes broken bones. Common fractures in motorcycle accidents include those to the legs, arms, wrists, ribs, and collarbones. These injuries can require extensive medical treatment, including surgery and rehabilitation.
• Road rash: Road rash occurs when a rider's skin scrapes against the pavement, causing abrasions, cuts, and bruises. Severe cases can lead to deep wounds, infections, scarring, and the need for skin grafts.
• Internal injuries: The blunt force trauma from a motorcycle accident can cause internal injuries to organs such as the liver, spleen, and kidneys. These injuries might not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if not promptly treated.
• Facial injuries: Motorcycle riders are at risk for severe facial injuries in a crash, including broken jaws, dental trauma, and deep cuts. These injuries can lead to disfigurement and require reconstructive surgery.
• Soft tissue injuries: Damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons can result in sprains, strains, and tears. Soft tissue injuries can be painful and may limit mobility, often requiring physical therapy for recovery.
• Amputations: In severe motorcycle accidents, limbs can be so badly damaged that amputation is necessary. Losing a limb has profound physical and emotional consequences, necessitating long-term medical care and rehabilitation.
• Hands and Feet Injuries: Due to their exposure, hands and feet are particularly vulnerable in motorcycle accidents. Injuries can include fractures, dislocations, and severe cuts, potentially leading to permanent disability if not properly treated.

What is the main cause of motorcycle accidents?

The main cause of motorcycle accidents in Maine is failure to uphold a duty of care. Motorists have a duty of care to follow all road rules and drive safely around motorcyclists. Additionally, motorcycle manufacturers have a duty to put only the safest motorcycle products on the market. When these parties fail to uphold their duty of care, and it results in someone’s injury or death, they can be found liable.

Common motorcycle accident causes include the following:

• Car or truck moves into motorcyclist’s right of way.
• A driver is distracted in some form or another (sending text messages or driving under the influence of alcohol, for example).
• Reckless driving or speeding by another motorist.
• A driver fails to yield the right-of-way to a motorcyclist.
• Road defects, such as bumps, potholes, gashes, loose gravel, or debris.
• Motorcycle defects such as malfunctioning brakes or tires.
• A motorist makes a left turn without checking for oncoming motorcyclists.

Motorcycle riders are some of the most vulnerable people on the road, and when motorists don’t drive safely around them, people get hurt. It’s important to retain a qualified attorney who can protect your rights.

Common types of motorcycle accidents

Motorcycle accidents can occur in various ways, often resulting in serious injuries or fatalities. Here are some of the most frequent types of motorcycle accidents:

Left-Turn Accidents

These occur when a vehicle turning left at an intersection fails to notice an oncoming motorcycle, resulting in a collision. This is one of the most common and dangerous types of motorcycle accidents.

Lane-Switching Accidents

When drivers change lanes without checking their blind spots, they may collide with a motorcycle traveling in the adjacent lane. Motorcycles are smaller and less visible, making them particularly vulnerable in these situations.

Rear-End Collisions

Motorcycles that stop suddenly can be rear-ended by vehicles following too closely. Due to their smaller size and shorter stopping distance, motorcycles can be easily overlooked by inattentive drivers.

Head-On Collisions

These occur when a motorcycle and another vehicle traveling in opposite directions collide. Due to the high impact force involved, head-on collisions are often fatal.

Dooring Accidents

These occur when a parked vehicle's door is suddenly opened into the path of an oncoming motorcycle. Motorcyclists often have little time to react and avoid the collision.

Road Hazards

Potholes, debris, uneven road surfaces, and other hazards can cause motorcyclists to lose control and crash. These hazards are particularly dangerous for motorcycles due to their smaller size and stability compared to larger vehicles.

Do I need a lawyer for a motorcycle accident?

Handling a motorcycle accident claim alone can be risky. Insurance companies often have a bias against motorcyclists and stereotype them as “reckless.” Without an attorney advocating for your rights, insurance companies could try to shift the blame onto you and use other tactics to reduce your compensation.

The Maine motorcycle accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein can handle all communications and negotiations with insurance companies, so they don’t try to use their usual tricks. We’ll ensure no stone is left unturned when protecting your rights and fighting for maximum compensation.

Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer if you've been injured

If you or a loved one was hurt in a motorcycle accident in Maine, the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein is here to help you get the compensation you’re entitled to. Our Maine motorcycle accident attorneys have over 50 years of experience fighting for the rights of injured motorcyclists and their families, and we have the case results to prove it. That includes:

• $2 million settlement for a Hampden client who suffered a traumatic brain injury when a car failed to yield and hit her motorcycle.
• $300,000 settlement for a Pembroke client who lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident caused by a careless driver.
• $145,000 settlement for a Litchfield client who was thrown from his bike after a dog ran into the street and caused him to crash.

Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer in Maine at the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein. When you contact us, there’s no obligation. Your consultation is free. At the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein, our Maine motorcycle accident lawyers know how to obtain maximum compensation for injury victims. Call Joe now to see how we can help! 1-866-275-4563.

"My experience with Joe couldn't have been better. I was in a bad motorcycle accident that left me injured and unable to work for 2 weeks. I tried my hand at going at it alone but could tell quickly that I was in way over my head. The other drivers insurance company was very difficult to work with. That's when I decided to seek professional help and called Joe! Smartest move I ever made. I went from being completely overwhelmed trying to juggle work, doctors visits, and keeping track of all my expenses to going back to normal. I was able to continue my day to day life while Joe and Michelle handled everything. Not only that but they had the case settled MUCH earlier than I predicted and I was completely satisfied with the outcome. I wish I had called sooner!"

- A.L., Alfred, ME