Maine Injury Lawyer Blog

January 13, 2025

Monmouth Police Lieutenant Critically Injured In Head-On Collision

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.

October 6, 2024

Massachusetts Man Seriously Injured In Skydiving Accident

by Peter Thompson & Associates

According to a recent article, a Massachusetts resident suffered critical injuries after skydiving in Lebanon, Maine. The 57-year-old had chartered a company named Sky Dive New England. Upon his descent, he experienced an issue performing a “flair” and suffered a hard landing as a result. The man was flown via helicopter to Maine Medical Center where he is expected to recover from his injuries

Skydiving is an exhilarating activity that draws thrill-seekers from around the world, but it also comes with significant risks. At Peter Thompson & Associates, we understand the complexities of personal injury cases arising from skydiving accidents. If you or a loved one has been injured, our experienced team is here to help you seek compensation for your losses.

September 5, 2024

South Portland Man Charged With Manslaughter After Drunk-Driving Accident

by Peter Thompson & Associates

According to a recent article, a man has been charged with manslaughter and operating under the influence (OUI) following a fatal head-on collision in Gray. The crash took place around 11:30 p.m. on Portland Road near Sugar Maple Road. Jean Claude Nshimiyimana, 43, is accused of driving drunk in a 2022 Jeep Gladiator when he collided head-on with a 2019 Chevrolet Suburban traveling in the opposite direction. The driver of the Suburban, 50-year-old Daniel Fackrell of Cumberland, was pronounced dead at the scene. Two children in the Suburban sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were treated at Maine Medical Center in Portland.

From drunk driving accidents to incidents involving alcohol-fueled violence, alcohol-related injuries can have devastating consequences. At Peter Thompson & Associates, we are dedicated to helping victims of alcohol-related injuries seek justice and compensation for their losses.

Common Types of Alcohol-Related Injuries

August 28, 2024

Cancer-Causing “Forever Chemicals” Spill In Brunswick

by Peter Thompson & Associates

According to a recent article, a significant spill of firefighting foam occurred in Brunswick where 1,450 gallons of foam concentrate mixed with 50,000 gallons of water. This event, which took place on August 19 in Hangar 4 of the former Navy base, represents the largest recorded discharge of the foam in Maine’s history. The foam contains harmful chemicals known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), which are associated with health risks, including cancer.

Following the spill, the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention advised the public to avoid or limit consumption of freshwater fish from four nearby bodies of water. Remediation efforts are underway, with foam being removed from four retention ponds and affected aircraft undergoing a final cleaning. PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment, are found in various products, including firefighting foam. The Environmental Protection Agency has recently proposed new limits on PFAS in drinking water to address the health concerns associated with these chemicals.

What Are Toxic Torts?

August 12, 2024

Tractor-Trailer Carrying 240-Foot Turbine Blade Overturns on Route 1

by Peter Thompson & Associates

According to a recent article, a tractor-trailer carrying a massive 240-foot turbine blade overturned on Route 1 in Stockton Springs early Friday morning after hitting a railroad bridge. The accident occurred around 5:30 a.m. while the vehicle was transporting the blade to a wind project in Columbia. The tractor-trailer wasn’t properly aligned in the left lane as it passed under the bridge, causing the blade to strike the bridge’s trestle and flip the vehicle.

Maine State Police shared photos of the overturned tractor-trailer and the efforts to remove the blade, which involved a crane. The road was shut down, and traffic was rerouted as crews worked to clear the scene. Due to the blade’s length, turning the vehicle around wasn’t possible. Instead, the blade was transferred to another trailer and reversed back to Searsport. While, fortunately, no one was injured in this accident, the situation still serves as a grave reminder of the unpredictable nature of road hazards.

Common Road Hazards in Maine

August 8, 2024

Driver Flees Scene After Killing Pedestrian in Falmouth

by Peter Thompson & Associates

Pedestrian accidents are a serious concern in Maine. Whether you’re strolling through Portland’s Old Port, enjoying a walk in Bangor, or crossing the street in a small town, the risk of being involved in a pedestrian accident is ever-present. Unfortunately, when these accidents occur, the consequences can be devastating, leading to severe injuries or even fatalities.

According to a recent article, a pedestrian was struck and killed on Gray Road on Tuesday afternoon around 3 p.m. in Falmouth, Maine. The driver involved fled the scene but was later found in a nearby parking lot. The police are investigating, using drones, and asking nearby businesses for any security footage.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

July 26, 2024

Two Dead In Trenton Plane Crash

by Peter Thompson & Associates

According to a recent article, two people died in a plane crash near Trenton Maine early Thursday morning. The aircraft, a Piper Cherokee, crashed under unknown circumstances shortly after taking off from Essex County Airport in Caldwell, New Jersey. Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash, and details about the victims have not been released.

Plane crashes are catastrophic events that can leave a lasting impact on victims and their families. Whether it’s a commercial airline accident or a private plane crash, the aftermath can be devastating, both emotionally and financially.

The Complex Nature of Plane Crash Cases

July 16, 2024

6 Children Injured in SUV Rollover

by Peter Thompson & Associates

SUVs are popular for their spacious interiors, off-road capabilities, and elevated driving positions. However, these vehicles come with a higher risk of rollovers compared to other types of vehicles. According to a recent article, seven people, including six children, were injured in an accident in Durham yesterday afternoon when a minivan rolled over, leaving its occupants fearing for their lives.

Why Are SUVs More Prone to Rollovers?

SUVs have a higher center of gravity than sedans or hatchbacks, making them more susceptible to tipping over, especially in certain conditions. Here are some common factors contributing to SUV rollovers: