With its many busy highways and roads, Portland, Maine is a frequent hotspot for commercial truck collisions. These collisions typically happen when the truck drivers in trucking companies make mistakes, such as by violating standard rules of the road or motor carrier regulations.
Upon suffering injuries in a Portland, Maine, trucking accident, you need experienced legal counsel on your side. At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we will carefully evaluate all of your legal options, file a claim or lawsuit on your behalf, negotiate with the insurance company, and, if necessary, litigate your case to a resolution in court.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with an experienced Portland, Maine, truck accident attorney, please call us at 866-304-1575 or contact us online.
Why Should We Represent You?

When it comes to maximizing your truck accident compensation, you want a knowledgeable, experienced, and compassionate legal team advocating for you. The legal team at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers understands the tactics that insurance companies routinely use to try and undervalue trucking collision claims. We know how to combat these tactics and have recovered millions of dollars in compensation for our injured clients.
You can see our most recent client testimonials by clicking on the following link. Let us secure the compensation and justice you deserve right away.
How Much Money is a Portland, Maine Trucking Accident Claim or Lawsuit Worth?
In a Portland, Maine, trucking accident case, several factors can affect the amount of compensation you may receive. Understanding these factors can help you better navigate the legal process and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
- One of the primary factors is the severity of your injuries. Serious injuries, such as broken bones, spinal cord damage, or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), typically result in higher compensation because these injuries often lead to extensive medical bills, long-term treatment, and a significant effect on your quality of life. If your injuries are less serious, the compensation may be lower since the associated costs and repercussions are less severe.
- Another crucial factor is the level of fault in the collision. When it is clear that the truck driver or trucking company was negligent, accident victims are more likely to recover high monetary compensation than if the case is contested.
- The amount of available insurance coverage also plays a significant role in determining compensation. Trucking companies often carry large insurance policies due to the potential for significant damages in trucking accidents. However, the actual amount you can receive may be limited under the policy’s coverage limits. If the damages exceed the policy limits, you may need to explore other avenues for compensation, such as suing the trucking company directly.
- Finally, the quality of your legal representation can greatly influence the outcome of your case. At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we have significant experience handling truck accident cases and know how to gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and present a strong case in court. Without skilled legal help, you may not receive the full amount of compensation you deserve.
Where Do Truck Accidents Occur in Portland, Maine?
In Portland, Maine, commercial truck crashes are most common in certain areas due to heavy traffic, complicated road designs, and the presence of key transportation routes.
- One of the primary areas where trucking accidents occur is Interstate 295 (I-295). This highway runs through Portland and is a major route for trucks traveling in and out of the city. I-295 is often busy with both local and long-distance traffic, leading to congestion, especially during peak hours. The high volume of vehicles, combined with the presence of large trucks, increases the likelihood of collisions. In addition, the on and off-ramps can be challenging for truck drivers to navigate, particularly if they are unfamiliar with the area.
- Commercial Street is another hotspot for trucking accidents in Portland. This street runs along the waterfront and is a hub of activity, with many businesses, restaurants, and shipping facilities located nearby. The combination of heavy truck traffic, pedestrian activity, and local vehicles makes Commercial Street a complex and risky area to drive through. Trucks making deliveries or pickups often have to navigate narrow lanes and tight corners, which can lead to crashes, especially when visibility is low or during inclement weather.
- The intersection of Forest Avenue and the Maine Turnpike (I-95) is also known for truck crashes. This intersection is a crucial connection point for trucks entering or exiting Portland. The high-speed traffic on the turnpike, combined with the frequent stops and starts on Forest Avenue, creates a challenging environment for truck drivers. Accidents in this area are often the result of sudden lane changes, speeding, or trucks struggling to merge safely into traffic.
- Finally, Congress Street, a major arterial road in Portland, sees its fair share of truck collisions. Frequent use by delivery trucks and commercial vehicles make it one of the busiest streets in the city. The combination of high traffic volume, pedestrian crossings, and the narrow lanes in some sections make Congress Street a tricky area for drivers of large trucks to maneuver.
Types of Portland, Maine Trucking Accidents
In Portland, Maine, several common categories of commercial trucking accidents occur due to the negligence of trucking companies or truck drivers. These accidents often lead to severe consequences, given the size and weight of trucks compared to smaller vehicles.
- One of the most frequent types of crashes is rear-end collisions, which occur when a truck driver fails to stop in time and crashes into the vehicle in front. Truck drivers often need more distance to stop due to the truck’s size and weight, so if a driver is distracted, fatigued, or following too closely, a rear-end collision can easily happen. This type of accident is especially dangerous because the impact force from a large truck can cause significant damage and serious injuries to the occupants of smaller vehicles.
- Another common category is jackknife accidents. Jackknifing occurs when the truck’s trailer swings out to the side, forming a ninety-degree angle with the cab. This often happens when a driver brakes suddenly or turns too sharply, causing the trailer to lose control. Jackknife accidents are particularly dangerous because the trailer can collide with other vehicles or even tip over, leading to multi-vehicle pileups.
- Rollover collisions are also prevalent and often result from a truck driver’s taking a turn too quickly or driving on uneven surfaces. In a rollover, the truck can flip onto its side or roof, potentially crushing other vehicles and blocking multiple lanes of traffic. These crashes often result from the driver’s failure to adjust speed according to road conditions or the improper loading of cargo, which can destabilize the truck.
- Underride crashes are another serious category. These accidents occur when a smaller vehicle slides under the rear or side of a truck, often because the truck driver fails to signal or stops suddenly. These collisions are particularly deadly, as the top of the smaller vehicle can be crushed, causing catastrophic injuries to the occupants.
Common Injuries in a Portland, Maine Truck Accident
Trucking accidents in Portland, Maine, can lead to a range of injuries, including physical, mental, and emotional harm. These injuries can have a lasting effect on the victims, affecting their ability to work, their quality of life, and their mental well-being.
Physical injuries are often the most immediately noticeable. Some of the most common physical injuries include broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and TBIs. Broken bones can result from the sheer force of impact, especially in collisions where a large truck hits a smaller vehicle. Spinal cord injuries are particularly severe, potentially leading to paralysis or long-term disability. TBIs occur when a victim’s head strikes an object inside the vehicle, such as the steering wheel or dashboard. Even with seatbelts and airbags, the force of a truck collision can cause significant head trauma, leading to symptoms like memory loss, headaches, and difficulty concentrating.
Mental injuries are also common after a trucking accident. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is one of the most frequent mental health issues victims experience. PTSD can develop after a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event, such as a severe truck accident. Symptoms of PTSD include flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety, making it difficult for the victim to return to normal life. Other mental health issues that may arise include depression and anxiety disorders, which can result from dealing with the aftermath of the accident, including physical pain, loss of income, and changes in lifestyle.
Emotional injuries often overlap with mental injuries but are centered more on the feelings and emotional well-being of the victim. Victims may experience emotional distress, which includes feelings of anger, frustration, and helplessness. Grief is another common emotional response, especially if the accident resulted in the loss of a loved one or if the victim’s injuries led to a permanent change in their life. Loss of enjoyment of life is a serious emotional injury where the victim can no longer participate in activities they once loved due to their injuries.
Fighting the Insurance Company After a Portland, Maine Truck Accident
Fighting the insurance company after a trucking accident in Portland, Maine, can be challenging, but with the right approach, we at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers can obtain the compensation you deserve. Insurance companies often try to minimize their payouts, so it is crucial to have a strong legal team on your side to protect your rights.
- First, we gather evidence to build a solid case, including collecting police reports, witness statements, and any available video footage of the crash. We also obtain medical records to document the extent of your injuries and the treatment you have received. Furthermore, we may consult with accident reconstruction experts who can help demonstrate how the truck driver or trucking company was at fault.
- Next, we handle all communications with the insurance company on your behalf. Insurance adjusters often use tactics to try to get you to say something that can reduce your claim. By allowing us to speak for you, we can ensure that nothing you say is taken out of context or used against you. We also negotiate directly with the insurance company to try to reach a fair settlement. We know the tactics they use, and we will not let them pressure you into accepting less than what you deserve.
- If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we are prepared to take your case to court. We will file a lawsuit and represent you in court, presenting all the evidence we have gathered to prove your case. Going to court can be intimidating, but we will be with you every step of the way, fighting to get you the compensation you need for your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Steps To Take After a Truck Accident in Portland, Maine
After a truck accident in Portland, Maine, taking the right steps is crucial to protect your health and your legal rights. Here is what you should do:
- First, pursue ongoing medical treatment and follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations – your health should be your top priority. Some injuries, like concussions or internal damage, may not show symptoms right away. Follow all treatment plans, attend follow-up appointments, and keep records of your medical care. This not only helps you recover but also documents your injuries, which is important for any legal claims.
- Next, retain important pieces of evidence, including photos of property damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Keep contact information from witnesses, along with a copy of the police report. This evidence can be critical in proving who was at fault and supporting your claim for financial compensation.
- Finally, speak with one of our Portland, Maine, truck accident attorneys about your case. We can thoroughly explain your legal options, deal with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Do not wait too long to seek legal advice, as there are time limits for filing a claim or lawsuit.
Consult with an Experienced Portland, Maine, Truck Accident Lawyer Right Away

At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we are prepared to fight for your rights and pursue the compensation you need to become whole again after your truck collision.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a knowledgeable Portland, Maine, truck accident lawyer, please call us at 866-304-1575 or contact us online.