Car accidents in Maine—from collisions on I-95 to rural road crashes in snow and ice—can result in serious injury, expensive vehicle damage, and unexpected legal questions. Knowing how car accident laws work in Maine can help you protect your rights, recover damages, and avoid delays when filing a claim. This guide explains who pays for what, how fault is determined, and what steps you need to take if you’ve been in a crash.
Maine Is an At-Fault State
Maine follows a fault-based insurance system. That means the driver who caused the accident is legally responsible for paying for the other party’s injuries and property damage. As a victim, you have a few options:
- File a claim with your own insurance (if your policy includes relevant coverage)
- File a third-party claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company
- File a personal injury lawsuit directly against the at-fault driver
It’s important to gather evidence at the scene to help prove the other driver’s fault.
Modified Comparative Fault in Maine
Maine uses a modified comparative fault rule with a 50% bar. If you’re found to be 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover any compensation. If you’re 49% or less at fault, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if you are awarded $40,000 in damages but found to be 20% at fault, you would receive $32,000.
Required Car Insurance in Maine
Drivers in Maine are required to carry liability insurance with the following minimum coverage amounts:
- $50,000 for bodily injury per person
- $100,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 for property damage
- $2,000 in medical payments (MedPay)
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage equal to the bodily injury liability limits
These requirements are higher than in many other states and are designed to offer strong protection to crash victims.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?
Maine law gives you six years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury or property damage lawsuit. This is a generous statute of limitations compared to most states, but it’s still important to begin the process early so evidence isn’t lost and witness memories remain fresh.
When Are You Required to Report a Crash?
Under Maine law, you must report an accident to law enforcement if:
- Someone is injured or killed
- Property damage appears to be $1,000 or more
You should also contact the police immediately if the other driver appears to be intoxicated or leaves the scene. Having a police report helps strengthen your case, especially when dealing with insurance companies.
What If the Other Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance?
If you’re hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver, your UM/UIM coverage will typically step in to cover your medical bills, lost wages, and other costs. In Maine, this coverage must be included in your policy unless you specifically reject it in writing.
This protection is particularly valuable in hit-and-run crashes or when the at-fault driver’s policy limits are too low to cover your damages.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
If the other driver is at fault and you’ve been injured, you may be entitled to recover:
- Medical bills (past and future)
- Rehabilitation and therapy expenses
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
In cases involving gross negligence or intentional misconduct, punitive damages may be awarded as well.
Are Passengers Eligible for Compensation?
Yes. Injured passengers in Maine have the right to file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance. If the driver of the vehicle they were riding in is responsible, passengers may file against that policy. If another driver is to blame, the passenger can pursue a third-party claim with that driver’s insurer.
Should You Get a Car Accident Attorney in Maine?
While Maine gives you more time than most states to file a lawsuit, that doesn’t mean you should wait. Insurance companies may delay or deny claims without strong legal backing. A personal injury attorney can help collect evidence, negotiate with insurers, and ensure you get the full compensation you deserve. Most offer free consultations and only charge fees if they win your case.