By Kit Yona, M.A. | Legally reviewed by Katrina Wilson, Esq. | Last reviewed May 23, 2024
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While it's nice to enjoy one of Maine's many scenic driving routes, nobody wants the experience ruined by an auto accident. Car crashes are an unwelcome reality, often causing property damage and personal injuries. There are also legal responsibilities to consider in an accident's aftermath.
Knowing what to do after an accident is helpful. This article will touch on Maine car accident laws. It also discusses making a car insurance claim, dealing with insurance companies, and determining who pays for damages.
Special attention will be given to accident reports and how they're created. Insurance companies use crash reports to determine fault and how damages should be paid. Read on to learn about Maine car accident report basics.
There are certain legal requirements for driving in Maine. While having a driver's license and a registered vehicle are obvious obligations, other laws aren't as clear-cut.
Maine requires all drivers to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance. But it recommends buying higher coverage amounts if possible. The legal minimums in Maine are:
A combined limit of $125,000 is also permissible.
Other required insurance includes:
Most claims will be handled by the insurance companies. For a detailed look at what to expect and how long it'll take, read FindLaw's Maine Car Accident Settlement Process and Timeline article.
As Maine is an at-fault state, the driver determined to be most responsible for the accident will be liable to pay the damages and medical expenses of the others involved in the accident.
The state of Maine follows a doctrine of modified comparative negligence as well, which affects all damages associated with the crash. Anyone more than 50% responsible for the accident can’t recover any damages, while others will have their recovery reduced by their percentage of fault.
For a better understanding of who gets what and why, take a look at FindLaw's Maine Car Accident Compensation Laws article.
Auto accidents are disruptive. Even if you're not injured, it's normal to be traumatized and confused in the aftermath. It may be difficult to collect your thoughts, but take a deep breath and try to remember what to do.
Minor or not, don't leave the scene of the accident. You'll face serious consequences as a hit-and-run driver if you do. Take a deep breath before checking yourself, any passengers you might have, and the others involved in the crash for injuries.
If possible, offer aid and assistance. If anyone is injured or the accident has caused significant damage, call 911. Let the operator know the severity of any wounds.
Whether you think the crash was serious or not, it's a good idea to call either local law enforcement or the Maine State Police on a non-emergency number. If your accident meets certain conditions, an accident report is mandatory. These conditions are:
At least one of the following criteria must apply as well:
If these conditions are met and you don't report the accident to the police, you face a Class E crime punishable by up to six months in jail, a $1,000 fine, and license suspension or revocation. You can fill out a report at a law enforcement office in the jurisdiction of the accident.
Whether the police come or not, there are some things you should do. Take pictures of the accident scene before moving any vehicles. If there are any witnesses, get their contact information and a witness statement.
Exchange information with all involved drivers. This should include:
If you're going to fill out the report yourself at a police station, note the location of the accident and any other pertinent facts.
Even if the accident wasn't your fault, you'll still need to file a claim with your insurance carrier. Seek medical attention for any injuries, making sure to keep copies of any medical treatments, bills, and expenses.
When the police officer shows up, try to be calm and polite as they take your statement. Answer their questions as truthfully as possible. Even if you think you might be responsible for the accident, avoid saying so directly.
The officer writing the report will take statements from all involved and gather contact and insurance information. They will gather as much objective data from the scene of the accident as possible, including:
As they weren’t a witness, the investigating officer's task isn't to assess fault. Rather, it’s to recreate the accident as much as possible for the report. Insurance companies will use the information to determine who is to blame.
In large enough accidents, the Maine Crash Reconstruction Unit may arrive on the scene.
Whether for insurance or a potential lawsuit, you'll need a copy of the finished crash report. All reportable accidents are entered into the Maine State Police database. You can request your report at their website. The report will be emailed to you for a $10 fee.
The chart below summarizes state laws related to Maine car accident reports, including links to key statutes.
Statutes |
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Law Enforcement Notification Required |
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Report Required |
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Report Deadline |
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Who Must Report |
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Note: State laws are subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts that include federal decisions, ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
While some car accidents are resolved quickly through fair insurance claims, others become a huge hassle with significant legal, financial, and even criminal ramifications. Whether you caused a major wreck or were side-swiped by a distracted driver, it's crucial to understand your legal rights and obligations.
Contact a local car accident attorney to learn more about your options. They can help ensure you've complied with reporting requirements under Maine's car accident report laws. Their legal advice can help you get the best outcome possible.
Contact a qualified attorney.
Get tailored legal advice and ask a lawyer questions about your accident. Many attorneys offer free consultations.
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