Maine Injury Lawyer Blog

March 24, 2025

Hit-And-Run in Dixmont Leaves Man With Life-Threatening Injuries

According to a recent article, a man has been hospitalized and is in critical condition after being subjected to a hit-and-run on Kennebec Road this past Friday. Officers discovered the unidentified man unconscious on the shoulder of the road, and he was immediately taken to the emergency room with catastrophic injuries. The Penobscot County Sheriff’s Office is investigating and no new information is available at this time.

Hit-and-run accidents are a distressing and all-too-common occurrence in Maine, leaving victims injured and families searching for justice. When a driver flees the scene of an accident without stopping to help or provide information, they not only violate the law but also leave victims in dire circumstances. At Peter Thompson & Associates, we are dedicated to helping victims of hit-and-run accidents pursue justice and compensation for their losses.

The Consequences of Hit-and-Run Accidents

March 17, 2025

East Millinocket Crash Kills One After Driver Crosses Center Line

by Peter Thompson & Associates

According to a recent article, a two-vehicle crash in East Millinocket on Friday claimed the life of a Medway woman and left two children injured. The accident occurred just after 12:30 p.m. on Main Street near Dolby Landfill Road. East Millinocket Police have determined that a small Chevy sedan traveling east crossed the center line into the path of a westbound Chevy 3500 service truck. The truck driver attempted to avoid the collision by moving into the opposite lane, but the sedan corrected its course, ultimately colliding with the truck and causing it to overturn. The sedan sustained significant front-end damage. The sedan’s driver, a 66-year-old woman from Medway, was transported via LifeFlight to Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center, where she later succumbed to her injuries. One of the two child passengers, ages 8 and 6, was also flown to the hospital but was reported to be in stable condition. The second child was treated at Millinocket Regional Hospital and later released.

Wrong-way crashes are among the most catastrophic types of motor vehicle accidents, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. These collisions typically occur when a vehicle travels against the designated flow of traffic, frequently leading to head-on impacts at high speeds. Unfortunately, wrong-way crashes are a persistent danger on Maine’s roadways, with devastating consequences for victims and their families.

Common Causes of Wrong-Way Accidents

March 10, 2025

Teenager Killed in Farming Accident

by Peter Thompson & Associates

According to a recent article, on March 9th, 2025, a heartbreaking accident in St. Agatha, Maine, claimed the life of a 14-year-old boy after he was struck by a farm tractor. The Maine State Police responded to the scene on Chasse Road at approximately 12:41 p.m., where an initial investigation revealed that the young victim was walking behind the tractor when the tragic incident occurred. Despite being transported to Fort Kent Hospital, he sadly succumbed to his injuries. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident.

The Risks of Farm Equipment Accidents

Tractor accidents are among the most common causes of serious injury and death in agricultural settings. These massive machines, while essential for farming operations, present significant hazards, particularly when operated near pedestrians or inexperienced individuals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, farming remains one of the most dangerous industries, with tractor-related incidents accounting for a significant portion of injuries and fatalities.

March 3, 2025

Family Sues Maine Jail Over Inmate Suicide

by Peter Thompson & Associates

According to a recent article, the family of Kare Randall, who died by suicide at Two Bridges Regional Jail in Wiscasset, has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against multiple local government agencies and officials, alleging that jail staff failed to protect him despite clear warning signs. Randall’s mother, Latoya Earles, claims the defendants were “deliberately indifferent” to her son’s serious mental health concerns, noting that he had previously attempted suicide at the facility. The lawsuit names Sagadahoc and Lincoln counties, Alternative Correctional Healthcare LLC, and several jail officials as defendants, accusing them of negligence and failing to properly train staff to handle inmates at risk of self-harm. The defendants have broadly denied responsibility, with some claiming they lack sufficient knowledge of the allegations, while also asserting qualified immunity. Earles is seeking financial damages and other relief, while the jail and Maine Department of Corrections have not provided updates on their reviews of the incident.

Understanding Wrongful Death Claims

Losing a loved one is always devastating, but when their death is caused by someone else’s negligence or misconduct, the pain can be even more overwhelming. In such tragic situations, families may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim to seek justice and financial compensation. At Peter Thompson & Associates, we understand the emotional and legal complexities surrounding wrongful death cases and are here to help Maine families navigate the process.

February 25, 2025

Two Dead, One Hospitalized in Multi-Vehicle Pile-Up

by Peter Thompson & Associates

According to a recent article, a serious accident occurred on Interstate 95 South in Wells, Maine, leaving two dead and another critically injured. The crash involved three vehicles, including a tractor-trailer, and resulted in the temporary closure of the southbound lanes. Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene to assist the injured and manage the situation. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the accident and have urged drivers to exercise caution in the area.

Multi-vehicle accidents, often referred to as pile-ups or chain-reaction crashes, are among the most complex types of motor vehicle collisions. These accidents involve three or more vehicles and can lead to severe injuries, extensive property damage, and challenging legal battles. At Peter Thompson & Associates, we understand the difficulties that victims face and are committed to helping those involved in multi-vehicle accidents secure the compensation they deserve.

Common Causes of Multi-Vehicle Accidents

February 13, 2025

16-Year-Old Seriously Injured in Eustis Snowmobile Accident

by Peter Thompson & Associates

According to a recent article, a 16-year-old from Massachusetts sustained serious injuries in a snowmobile accident in Eustis, Maine. The incident occurred on a trail near Route 27 when the teenager lost control of the snowmobile, resulting in a collision. Emergency responders transported the individual to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Maine’s picturesque winter landscape and extensive trail system make it a popular destination for snowmobile enthusiasts. However, the excitement and thrill of snowmobiling come with inherent risks. Accidents can happen in an instant, leading to severe injuries or even fatalities. If you or a loved one has been injured in a snowmobile accident, understanding your legal rights is essential.

Common Causes of Snowmobile Accidents

January 29, 2025

62-year-old Madison Man Killed In Semi-Truck Collision

by Peter Thompson & Associates

According to a recent article, a fatal crash occurred on Sunday night in West Forks, Maine, when a pickup truck crossed the center line on Route 201 and collided with an oncoming semi-truck. Authorities responded to the scene after receiving a report around 7:48 p.m. The driver of the pickup, a 62-year-old Madison man, was wearing his seatbelt but was pronounced dead at the scene. The semi-truck, operated by a 43-year-old Quebec man transporting paper products, did not sustain injuries. The investigation continued into Monday afternoon, and Route 201 has since reopened to traffic.

Accidents involving 18-wheelers and other large commercial vehicles can have devastating consequences for those involved. Given the size and weight of these vehicles, crashes often result in severe injuries or fatalities. At Peter Thompson & Associates, we have extensive experience helping victims of trucking accidents recover compensation for their injuries and losses. Continue reading

January 13, 2025

Monmouth Police Lieutenant Critically Injured In Head-On Collision

by Peter Thompson & Associates

According to a recent article, Monmouth Police Lt. Dana Wessling was critically injured in a head-on collision on Turner Center Road in Maine on Monday afternoon. Authorities report that the crash occurred when a Ford F-150, driven by Sean McNeil, crossed the center line and collided with Wessling’s police cruiser, which he was driving home after picking up his 7-year-old son from daycare. Wessling was airlifted to Maine Medical Center in critical condition, while his son was taken to a local hospital as a precaution. The crash remains under investigation.

Head-on collisions are among the most devastating types of car accidents, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. In Maine, with its mix of rural roads and harsh weather conditions, these accidents are unfortunately all too common. At Peter Thompson & Associates, we understand the life-altering consequences of head-on collisions and are committed to helping victims navigate the legal challenges that follow.

The Causes of Head-On Collisions

December 9, 2024

9,000 Gallons of Waste Spilled After Tanker Accident in Gardiner

by Peter Thompson & Associates

According to a recent article, on December 5, 2024, a tanker truck crash on Interstate 295 in Gardiner, Maine, created a hazardous and disruptive situation. The accident involved a tanker carrying approximately 9,000 gallons of foul-smelling liquid waste, also known as “dirty water,” from a landfill. The tanker collided with a truck hauling a traffic director trailer in a construction zone, resulting in a spill that covered the highway with hazardous materials. The Maine Department of Environmental Protection was called to manage the cleanup, and the tanker driver faced citations for failing to maintain control of their vehicle and for not yielding to a highway maintenance vehicle.

The Dangers of Toxic Spills

Toxic spills following tanker truck collisions present a significant risk to public health, the environment, and motorists. In addition to immediate hazards such as slippery road conditions and exposure to harmful substances, these incidents can cause long-term environmental damage and economic losses due to prolonged cleanup efforts.

October 22, 2024

A Recipe for Disaster: Holding Negligent Food Providers Accountable

by Peter Thompson & Associates

While residents and visitors of Maine may enjoy the endless supplies of fresh lobster, oysters, and other oceanic delicacies, there is always a risk that comes with the consumption of raw, undercooked, or contaminated products. What might initially seem like a mild illness can escalate into serious health issues requiring medical intervention, lost wages, and emotional distress. In some cases, severe foodborne illnesses can lead to long-term health complications or even death. If you’ve suffered from food poisoning in Maine, you may be entitled to compensation, and we’re here to help you understand your rights.

What Is Food Poisoning?

Food poisoning occurs when someone consumes food or beverages contaminated with harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites, or toxins. Common culprits include Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria, and norovirus. Symptoms can range from nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea to more severe conditions like organ failure or neurological damage.