White semi-truck driving on a rural road surrounded by trees.

Injured by a Big Truck in Lewiston, Maine?

If you've been injured by a commercial truck in Lewiston, you're likely feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about your next steps. Fortunately, you don’t have to face this challenge alone. Lowry Law is here to help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you may be entitled to. We have the experience and resources to take on powerful trucking companies and help ensure justice is served. Get started with a free case review from a trusted truck accident lawyer in Lewiston.

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Truck Accident Lawyer in Lewiston, ME

A collision with a tractor-trailer can leave you dealing with serious injuries, overwhelming medical bills, time away from work, and constant calls from insurance companies. Here in Lewiston, where busy routes like I-95 and Route 196 see heavy commercial traffic every day, these accidents are unfortunately too common, but that doesn’t make them any less devastating for those involved.

If you’re searching for a truck accident lawyer in Lewiston, you need skilled legal help from a dedicated team that understands the stakes. Trucking companies and their insurers act quickly to protect themselves after a crash. You deserve someone who will act just as quickly to protect you. At Lowry Law, we’ve been helping injured Mainers in Lewiston and across Androscoggin County since 1971. We know how to manage complex truck accident cases and take on large companies that try to avoid responsibility.

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all representation. Every case is personal, and every client deserves to be heard. From your free initial consultation to the resolution of your case, our firm is focused on helping you regain control of your life and secure the compensation you need to move forward.

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Understanding Your Needs

Our team will listen to you, understand your situation, and work to get you the support and compensation you may need.

Free Case Review

During your free case review, you will get a better idea of the compensation you may be owed and how we can help you pursue it.

Fighting for Fair Compensation

We work hard to make sure you get the maximum compensation available, not just what the insurance company wants to give you.

Table of Contents

Why Choose Lowry Law for Your Truck Accident Claim?

If you were hurt in a crash with a commercial vehicle, choosing the right legal team can have a major impact on your case. With more than 50 years of combined experience, our attorneys understand how to take on trucking companies, insurance carriers, and corporate defense teams and win. We know Lewiston, we know Maine law, and we know what it takes to get results for our clients. When you work with us, you can expect:

  • Local Experience That Matters: We are a Maine-based firm deeply familiar with Lewiston and Androscoggin County. We understand local roads, courts, and how cases are handled here.
  • Decades of Proven Results: Our attorneys have recovered millions of dollars for injury victims. We build strong cases designed to pursue the full compensation you may be owed.
  • Personalized Attention: We take the time to understand your injuries, your concerns, and your goals so we can build a legal strategy that fits your situation.
  • Aggressive Representation: Truck accident cases often involve large companies and insurers with significant resources. We are prepared to stand up to them and fight for you.
  • Clear Communication: We explain your options clearly and keep you informed every step of the way so you can make confident decisions.
  • No Upfront Costs: We work on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing unless we successfully recover compensation for you.

Our Lewiston team at Lowry Law is here to guide you, protect your rights, and fight for the outcome you need to move forward.

Types of Truck Accident Cases We Handle

Some of the most common types of truck accident cases we handle include:

  • Rear-end collisions: When a commercial truck strikes a smaller vehicle from behind
  • Jackknife accidents: Occur when a truck’s trailer swings out at an angle, blocking multiple lanes of traffic
  • Rollover accidents: Trucks can roll over due to speeding, improper loading, or sharp turns
  • Underride accidents: Happen when a smaller vehicle slides underneath a truck trailer
  • Blind spot accidents: Large trucks have significant blind spots, and failing to check these areas can lead to sideswipes or collisions with nearby vehicles
  • Head-on collisions: Among the most serious types of truck accidents due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles
  • Wide turn accidents: When drivers misjudge a turn, they can trap or strike nearby vehicles

At Lowry Law, our attorneys have extensive experience handling a wide range of cases involving tractor-trailers and other commercial vehicles. No matter how your accident occurred, we are prepared to investigate and pursue full compensation.

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Common Truck Accident Causes & Injuries

Truck accidents in Lewiston can result from numerous factors, some of which may be tied to driver negligence or trucking company policies. Common causes include:

  • Driver fatigue
  • Distracted driving
  • Speeding or reckless driving
  • Improperly loaded cargo
  • Poor truck maintenance
  • Driving under the influence
  • Inexperienced or poorly trained drivers
  • Dangerous road conditions

Due to the size and force of commercial trucks, victims often suffer severe injuries that require extensive medical treatment. Common injuries include:

  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): These injuries can affect memory, cognition, and long-term quality of life.
  • Spinal cord injuries: Damage to the spine can result in partial or complete paralysis.
  • Broken bones: High-impact crashes often lead to multiple fractures that may require surgery.
  • Internal injuries: Damage to organs or internal bleeding may not be immediately visible and can be life-threatening.
  • Burns: Fires or explosions following a crash can cause serious burn injuries.
  • Whiplash: Neck injuries can lead to chronic pain and long-term complications.
  • Wrongful death: Tragically, some truck accidents result in fatalities, leaving families to deal with emotional and financial loss.

A Lewiston truck accident lawyer can gather key evidence and apply Maine and federal trucking laws to build a case focused on securing the maximum compensation available for your injuries. Reach out for a free consultation today to learn more.

We Get the RESULTS You Need After an Accident

 

$1,000,000.00

Pedestrian Accident

$920,000.00

Car Accident

$900,000.00

Motorcycle Accident

$800,000.00

Truck Accident

$575,000.00

Premises Liability

$500,000.00

Dangerous Premises

$400,000.00

Dog Bite

$400,000.00

Motorcycle Accident

$350,000.00

Car Accident

$350,000.00

Motorcycle Accident

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What Compensation Is Available to Lewiston Truck Accident Victims?

The compensation you may be entitled to in a truck accident claim will depend on the severity of your injuries and the impact the accident has had on your life. Here’s a closer look at the various types of damages you could recover:

The most immediate and often the largest expense after a truck accident is medical care. Compensation for medical expenses covers the full range of treatment and care you require, both immediately after the accident and in the future. This includes:

  • Emergency Room Visits: The cost of ambulance transport and emergency room treatment, such as diagnostic tests (X-rays, MRIs) and immediate care like stitches or setting broken bones.
  • Surgery: If your injuries require surgery, including anesthesia, operating room costs, and post-surgery hospitalization.
  • Hospital Stays: The cost of inpatient hospital care if your injuries require you to remain under medical supervision for a period of time.
  • Medications: Prescription drugs to manage pain or infections following your injuries.
  • Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy: Ongoing therapy to regain mobility, strength, or to assist with chronic pain resulting from your injuries.
  • Assistive Devices: Items such as wheelchairs, crutches, or prosthetics that may be necessary due to your injuries.
  • Future Medical Costs: In severe injury cases, compensation may cover future medical treatments, ongoing rehabilitation, or anticipated surgeries.

If your injuries cause you to miss work, you may be entitled to recover compensation for the income you lost during that time. This includes:

  • Hourly Wages or Salaries: Compensation for the specific number of workdays or hours you missed due to your injuries, including time spent in recovery or attending medical appointments.
  • Sick Days or Vacation Days Used: If you had to use sick leave or vacation time while recovering from your injuries, you may be compensated for the lost value of those benefits.
  • Self-Employment Income: For those who are self-employed, lost income may be more complex to calculate, but it can include lost business opportunities or missed contracts during your recovery period.

In cases where your injuries prevent you from returning to the same type of work or limit your ability to earn as much as you did before the accident, you can seek compensation for reduced earning capacity. This involves:

  • Permanent Disability: If the accident leaves you with a permanent disability (such as loss of limb or severe spinal injuries), you may not be able to return to your previous occupation. Compensation will cover the reduction in your future earning potential.
  • Vocational Retraining: If you are no longer able to perform your previous job but can retrain for a new profession, you may be compensated for the costs of vocational training or education to switch careers.
  • Loss of Promotions or Career Advancement: In some cases, your injury may prevent you from reaching milestones in your career, such as promotions or bonuses.

In addition to tangible expenses like medical bills and lost wages, truck accident victims are often entitled to non-economic damages for the pain and suffering they endure. This category includes:

  • Physical Pain: Compensation for the physical discomfort and suffering caused by your injuries, including ongoing or chronic pain that may not subside after treatment.
  • Emotional Distress: Truck accidents can leave victims dealing with emotional and psychological trauma, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and loss of enjoyment of life. For example, if you are no longer able to participate in hobbies or activities you enjoyed before the accident, this could factor into your compensation for pain and suffering.
  • Loss of Consortium: In some cases, family members may seek compensation for the loss of companionship or the strain the accident has placed on their relationship with the victim, such as a spouse no longer able to maintain their previous level of intimacy or support due to the injuries.

If your vehicle or other personal property was damaged or destroyed in the truck accident, you could be compensated for the repair or replacement costs. This typically includes:

  • Vehicle Repair Costs: The expense of repairing your vehicle, or if it was totaled, the replacement cost of a new vehicle.
  • Personal Belongings: Any personal items damaged or lost in the crash, such as cell phones, laptops, or other valuables that were in the vehicle.

In rare circumstances, punitive damages may be awarded in addition to compensatory damages. These damages are designed to punish particularly egregious or reckless behavior and to deter similar conduct in the future.

Your Lewiston truck accident attorney can evaluate your situation and calculate the full extent of your potential damages to help make sure you are fairly compensated for the physical, emotional, and financial impact of what you’ve been through.

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Negligence and Your Lewiston Truck Accident Case

Determining fault is necessary for a successful truck accident lawsuit. Negligence occurs when a party fails to act with reasonable care, leading to an accident and injury. In your case, you’ll need to demonstrate that:

  1. The truck driver or another party owed you a duty of care.
  2. This duty was breached through actions like reckless driving or non-compliance with federal regulations.
  3. The breach caused the accident and your resulting injuries.
  4. You suffered damages (medical expenses, lost wages, emotional pain, etc.) because of the accident.

A Lewiston truck accident lawyer from Lowry Law will gather the necessary evidence to establish liability and hold the responsible parties accountable.

Who Is Responsible for Your Accident?

Truck accident cases often involve multiple potentially liable parties. These could include:

  • The truck driver if they were negligent, fatigued, or impaired.
  • The trucking company if they failed to follow hiring or training protocols.
  • Maintenance providers if poor truck upkeep contributed to the accident.
  • Manufacturers in the case of defective truck parts.

Maine follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means each party is assigned a percentage of fault. As long as you are less than 50% responsible, you may still recover compensation, though your recovery may be reduced. Reach out to Lowry Law to help ensure fault is fairly determined and that the right parties are held responsible for your accident.

See What Our Clients Are Saying About Us

5 Star Reviews

From what I have seen over the past couple of years, your firm is represented by a professional team who treat their clients honestly, fairly, and with dignity.  I am so glad I switched to your firm!

-Denise R.
5 Star Reviews

Keep up the good work! I hope I do not…But if I ever do need another accident attorney, you are top on my list!

-Jason B.
5 Star Reviews

The injuries from this experience caused me to lose an entire year from my life. The company responsible for this accident cared nothing about my well-being and refused to work with me. Despite the odds, your firm was willing to take my case. The staff that handled my case was absolutely courteous, friendly, and appeared interested in me and my well-being. I would highly recommend your firm. Thank you so much for your kind and friendly service.

-Rita B.
5 Star Reviews

I felt very comfortable with Don representing me.  I feel he did the very best job possible.  I was also very thankful to have a lawyer with as much experience in these types of cases as Don does.  Thanks again.

-Diane G.
5 Star Reviews

I feel that your team was superb about all that took place with my case, and if I ever need the support of an attorney again, you would be at the top of my list!

-Heidi H.
5 Star Reviews

My attorney did an excellent job on my case.  Whenever I had a question, he provided me with an answer and made it a priority!

-Ryan M.
5 Star Reviews

I could not have asked for a better attorney than Lowry & Associates, and the staff that work for this firm.

-Ronald S.
5 Star Reviews

I feel the firm handled my case in an honest and professional way.  I am very happy with my results and would use your firm in the future (though hopefully I won’t have to!)

-Robyn B.
5 Star Reviews

Everyone was excellent, you could not ask for a better team of professionals working on your side!

-Misty B.
5 Star Reviews

Jennifer was the one whom I spoke with the most and she was excellent in handling everything including being a very sweet and caring person.

-Valerie H.

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State & Federal Trucking Laws to Know

When filing a truck accident lawsuit, it’s helpful to understand how state and federal trucking regulations might affect your case. Trucking companies and their drivers must comply with strict safety standards set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Violations of these regulations can serve as evidence of negligence and influence the outcome of your case. Here are key regulations that may impact your claim:

The FMCSA’s Hours of Service (HOS) regulations are designed to prevent driver fatigue, a leading cause of truck accidents. The rules limit how long drivers can be on the road before taking mandatory breaks. Key provisions include:

  • 11-Hour Driving Limit: After 10 consecutive hours off duty, a truck driver is allowed to drive for up to 11 hours.
  • 14-Hour Limit: Drivers may not drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty, following 10 consecutive off-duty hours.
  • 30-Minute Break Requirement: Drivers are required to take a 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving without at least a 30-minute interruption.
  • 60/70-Hour Duty Limit: Truckers cannot drive after being on duty for 60 hours over 7 consecutive days or 70 hours over 8 consecutive days. This is meant to ensure that drivers don’t work excessively long weeks, increasing the risk of fatigue.

Read the detailed FMCSA HOS rules.

Another important regulation involves drug and alcohol testing. Truck drivers operating commercial vehicles are required to undergo testing to ensure they are not impaired while driving. The FMCSA mandates testing in the following situations:

  • Pre-Employment Testing: Drivers must pass a drug test before being hired by a trucking company.
  • Random Testing: Truck drivers are subject to unannounced drug and alcohol testing throughout the year.
  • Post-Accident Testing: If a truck driver is involved in an accident, they must be tested for drugs and alcohol if the accident resulted in a fatality, if the driver received a citation, or if the accident caused injury or substantial vehicle damage.
  • Reasonable Suspicion Testing: A driver must be tested if their employer has a reasonable belief that the driver may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol based on observable behavior or appearance.
  • Return-to-Duty Testing: If a driver fails a drug or alcohol test, they must pass a return-to-duty test before they can resume operating a commercial vehicle.

These tests aim to ensure that truck drivers are sober and alert, reducing the likelihood of accidents caused by impairment. A failure to comply with drug and alcohol testing regulations can serve as strong evidence of negligence in a truck accident lawsuit.

Learn more about FMCSA drug and alcohol rules.

The FMCSA also enforces inspection, repair, and maintenance standards that trucking companies and drivers must follow to keep their vehicles in safe operating condition. These include:

  • Daily Vehicle Inspections: Drivers are required to inspect their trucks at the start and end of each workday. This includes checking brakes, lights, tires, steering, and other safety features.
  • Annual Inspections: Commercial motor vehicles must undergo a more thorough annual inspection by a qualified inspector to ensure compliance with safety standards.
  • Record Keeping: Trucking companies are responsible for maintaining detailed records of vehicle inspections, repairs, and maintenance for at least 12 months. These records can be critical in determining whether poor vehicle maintenance contributed to an accident.

Violations of any of these FMCSA regulations can contribute significantly to proving negligence in a truck accident case. For example, if a truck driver exceeded their hours of service, drove under the influence, or failed to maintain their vehicle properly, it could establish the truck driver’s or company’s liability in your case.

Our legal team will meticulously investigate whether any of these regulations were violated and hold the responsible parties accountable for your injuries and damages.

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What to Do After a Truck Accident in Lewiston

Taking the right steps after a crash can protect your health, strengthen your case, and improve your chances of recovering compensation. If you were involved in a commercial truck accident in Lewiston, here’s what you should do:

  1. Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance. A police report will also document important details about the crash.
  2. Seek medical attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries may not show symptoms right away but can become serious over time.
  3. Document the scene: Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, skid marks, and any visible injuries.
  4. Exchange information: Collect contact and insurance details from the truck driver, as well as the name of the trucking company. If there are witnesses, get their contact information.
  5. Don’t speak with insurance adjusters alone: Trucking companies and insurers often act quickly to protect their interests. Avoid giving recorded statements before speaking with an attorney.
  6. Contact a Lewiston truck accident lawyer: The sooner you speak with an attorney, the better. Our trusted team can step in quickly to investigate your accident, protect key evidence, and handle the legal process while you focus on your recovery.

Don’t Wait to File a Lawsuit–Time Is Limited!

In Maine, the statute of limitations for filing a truck accident lawsuit is 6 years from the date of the accident. However, certain deadlines could be as short as 30 days. Consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss your window to file a claim. Lowry Law is here to guide you through the legal process and make sure your rights are protected.

Our Experienced Truck Accident Attorneys in Lewiston, ME

Attorney James C. Beardsley of Lowry & Associates

Attorney James C. Beardsley

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Attorney Mary K. Larsen

Attorney Mary K. Larsen

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Attorney Ashley H. Winslow

Attorney Ashley H. Winslow

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Attorney Colin Reilly

Attorney Colin B. Reilly

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How Can a Lewiston Truck Accident Attorney Help Your Claim?

Truck accident cases are often more complex than typical car accident claims. They can involve multiple parties, federal regulations, and aggressive insurance companies working to limit what they pay. At Lowry Law, we can handle every aspect of your case and protect your claim from the start so you can concentrate on getting better. Here’s how our Lewiston truck accident attorneys can help:

  • Conduct a thorough investigation: We gather valuable evidence such as accident reports, driver logs, black box data, maintenance records, and witness statements to determine exactly what happened.
  • Identify all liable parties: We work to hold every responsible party accountable.
  • Apply Maine and federal trucking laws: Commercial trucking is heavily regulated. We use our knowledge of Maine law and federal regulations to strengthen your claim and uncover violations that may have contributed to the crash.
  • Handle insurance companies for you: Insurers often try to minimize payouts or shift blame. We deal directly with them to protect your rights and prevent lowball settlement offers.
  • Accurately calculate your damages: We evaluate the full impact of your injuries, including medical expenses, lost wages, future care needs, and pain and suffering.
  • Negotiate for maximum compensation: Our goal is to secure a fair settlement that reflects the true value of your claim. We are prepared to push back against unfair offers.
  • Take your case to trial if needed: If a fair settlement can’t be reached, we are ready to take your case to court and advocate for you in front of a judge or jury.

You shouldn’t have to navigate a complex truck accident claim on your own. Our team can step in right away to protect your interests and guide you forward. We handle cases on a contingency fee basis, so there are no upfront fees and no financial risk to you. Get started today with a free, no-obligation consultation.

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Lewiston Truck Accident FAQs

In a legal context, a “truck” can refer to a wide range of commercial vehicles used for business purposes. This includes semi-trucks (18-wheelers), tractor-trailers, delivery trucks, box trucks, dump trucks, and other large commercial vehicles. These cases are often more complex than typical car accidents because they may involve federal trucking regulations and multiple responsible parties.

There is no true “average” settlement. The value of your truck accident case depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and how the accident has impacted your life. Cases involving serious injuries or long-term disability typically result in higher settlements. A Lewiston truck accident lawyer can review your case and estimate its potential value.

The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the case. Some claims settle within months, while others (especially those involving serious injuries or disputed liability) can take a year or more. Your attorney can provide a more accurate timeline based on your situation.

Most truck accident cases are resolved through settlements without going to court. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, your attorney may recommend litigation. At Lowry Law, we prepare every case as if it will go to trial, which puts us in a stronger position during negotiations.

At Lowry Law, we handle truck accident cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we recover compensation for you, so there is no financial risk in seeking legal help.

Schedule a Free Consultation With a Lewiston Truck Accident Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. The sooner you speak with a qualified truck accident lawyer in Lewiston, the better your chances of protecting your rights and building a strong case.

At Lowry Law, we are available 24/7 to answer your questions, evaluate your situation, and guide you through your legal options. We offer free consultations, and you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and let us help you take the next step with confidence.

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