Maine experienced a near-record number of fatal car accidents last year, raising alarm among traffic safety officials after a promising decline in 2023, according to the Portland Press Herald.
"Safe driving cannot be the sole responsibility of federal and state government entities, auto manufacturers, legislators, law enforcement officers, or driving instructors," wrote Lauren V. Stewart, director of the Maine Bureau of Highway Safety, in a statement to the Portland Press Herald. "Safe driving is the responsibility of each one of us who uses the public roads for transportation as a condition of our privilege to drive."
If you’ve been affected by a serious crash in Maine, it’s important to understand your legal rights. When a negligent driver causes an accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. An experienced car accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein in Maine can help you hold at-fault drivers accountable and fight for the financial support you deserve.
Crash fatalities in Maine reach near-record levels
In a troubling trend, Maine officials reported 171 car accident fatalities by December 22, 2024, according to the Portland Press Herald. This nearly matches the tragic record set in 2022, when 177 people lost their lives in motor vehicle crashes—the highest death toll in 15 years.
The sharp increase in fatalities is especially alarming considering the significant decline in 2023 when car accident deaths dropped to 134—the lowest number since 2014. Despite that improvement, safety officials continued to stress the importance of caution on the roads. "Have you ever considered how many traffic fatalities on Maine roads are acceptable to you?" Stewart asked. "Is it 100 fatalities? Is it 50? Is it 25?"
What causes most fatal car accidents in Maine?
Fatal car accidents in Maine occur for many reasons, but some dangerous behaviors consistently stand out. In 2023, nearly 60% of those killed in car crashes were not wearing seatbelts, according to the Portland Press Herald. Distracted driving also remains a major contributor, with drivers failing to focus due to texting, talking, or other distractions.
Federal crash data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) highlights two leading causes of deadly crashes:
- Drunk Driving: Impaired drivers with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) over the legal limit of 0.08% were responsible for 62 traffic fatalities in Maine in 2022, making up 34% of all car accident deaths that year.
- Speeding: Driving at unsafe speeds caused 53 fatalities, accounting for 29% of Maine’s car accident deaths in 2022.
Other factors, such as drowsy driving and falling asleep at the wheel, also contribute to serious and fatal crashes. Drivers operating without sufficient rest often make slower decisions or lose control altogether, putting themselves and others in danger.
How can drivers help prevent car accident fatalities?
Preventing fatal car accidents in Maine starts with individual responsibility behind the wheel. Many collisions can be avoided when drivers follow essential safety practices. Here are steps you can take to reduce the risk of deadly crashes:
- Buckle Up Every Time: Wearing a seatbelt is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself and your passengers. Seatbelts save lives and are a critical defense against serious injuries in crashes.
- Avoid Distractions: Maine’s laws prohibit texting while driving, but even hands-free phone use can divert your focus. Keep your attention on the road and avoid any activity that takes your eyes or mind off driving.
- Never Drive Under the Influence: Alcohol and drugs impair reaction times and decision-making. If you’ve been drinking, find a safe ride home through a designated driver, taxi, or rideshare.
- Follow the Speed Limit: Speeding reduces the time you have to react and increases the severity of crashes. Driving at safe speeds, especially in bad weather, can prevent fatal collisions.
While safe driving habits are crucial, accidents still happen due to other drivers’ negligence. If you or a loved one have been injured in a crash caused by a reckless driver, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone
Protect your rights after a serious crash
Even the safest drivers can become victims of devastating car accidents due to someone else’s negligence. If you or a loved one were injured in a crash, you deserve experienced legal support to guide you through the challenges ahead. The aftermath of a serious accident often includes mounting medical bills, lost income, and emotional distress—and insurance companies may not offer a fair settlement without a fight.
At the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein, our dedicated legal team understands what’s at stake. We have a proven track record of standing up for accident victims in Maine and securing significant compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Our case results demonstrate this, including a $3.75 million settlement for a car accident injury victim in Maine.
In addition to representing injured Mainers, our law firm hosts the annual Arrive Alive Creative Contest, which is now in its 21st year. The contest is open to graduating high school seniors in Maine who may enter a creative project of their choice about the dangers of distracted driving.
First-place winners receive a new laptop computer, second and third-place winners receive a new iPad, and all seniors who enter receive fun prizes from our law firm. In the past 20 years, the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein has given away over $200,000 in prizes to graduating high school seniors who have helped send the message to teenagers: “Stay Safe – Arrive Alive!”
Don’t wait to get the justice you deserve. Contact us today for a free case evaluation and take the first step toward rebuilding your life after a serious car accident.
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