Personal Injury

April 9, 2025

Maine Man Killed In Sugarloaf Accident

According to a recent article, a 63-year-old snowboarder from Kingfield, Kendall Willard, died following an accident at Sugarloaf Mountain. The Maine Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determined that Willard died from blunt force trauma after falling while attempting to retrieve a glove he had dropped from a chairlift. Authorities report that Willard walked down a closed trail, which had been shut due to icy conditions. He lost his footing and slid approximately 800 feet into a group of trees. The incident occurred around 9:00 a.m. on Saturday. Local officials and the community have expressed condolences to his family and friends.

Maine’s rugged mountains and scenic slopes make it a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders. From Sugarloaf to Sunday River, winter sports enthusiasts come from all over to enjoy the snow-covered terrain. However, with these exciting outdoor activities comes the risk of serious injury. At Peter Thompson & Associates, we understand the complexities of skiing accident claims and are here to help injured individuals pursue the compensation they deserve.

Common Causes of Skiing 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.

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

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 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.

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