Hit-and-Run Car Accident Attorneys in Portland, ME 

A hit-and-run accident can turn your world upside down in an instant. One moment you’re going about your day, and the next, you’re left with injuries, a damaged vehicle, and no clear answers. It’s frustrating, unfair, and downright overwhelming. You might feel angry, scared, or even hopeless—but you’re not alone. 

At Horn Wright, LLP, we know how tough it is to deal with the aftermath of a hit-and-run. That’s why we’re here to help. Our hit and run car accident attorneys have helped people just like you in Portland hold reckless drivers accountable and recover the compensation they deserve. Let us shoulder the legal stress so you can focus on healing and moving forward.

Understanding Hit-and-Run Accidents in Portland, Maine 

So, what exactly is a hit-and-run? It’s when a driver hits another car, a pedestrian, or even property and then takes off without stopping to do the right thing. They don’t exchange information or help anyone who might be hurt. They just...leave. 

Why would someone do that? Sometimes, they’re scared. Maybe they don’t have insurance, or they’ve got a suspended license. Other times, they’ve been drinking or don’t want to deal with the consequences. Whatever their reason, it doesn’t justify leaving someone else to deal with the mess they caused. Regardless of the reason, you’ll still want to hire a lawyer for a car accident that wasn’t your fault. 

These accidents happen more often than you might think, even in a close-knit community like Portland. The good news? There are ways to fight back and make sure you aren’t left picking up the pieces alone. 

Maine Laws on Hit-and-Run Accidents 

In Maine, it’s the law: if you’re involved in an accident, you’re required by law to stop. Drivers are required to provide their name, contact info, and insurance details to the other parties involved. If someone’s hurt, they’re also supposed to help, whether that means calling for medical assistance or staying with the injured person until help arrives. 

When drivers don’t follow these rules, the consequences are serious. Fines, jail time, license suspension—it all depends on how severe the accident was. If someone’s seriously injured or worse, the penalties can escalate fast. Insurance companies will look for violations of the law when determining who was at fault for a car accident. 

But what about you? The victim? The law might punish the driver (if they’re caught), but you deserve more than that. You deserve compensation for what you’ve been through, and that’s where the personal injury attorneys at Horn Wright, LLP, come in. 

Common Challenges After a Hit-and-Run Crash 

Hit-and-run accidents aren’t just painful—they’re complicated. The biggest problem? Finding the driver who hit you. Without a license plate or other identifying details, it can feel like chasing a ghost. Fortunately, hit-and-run accidents account for only 1% of the car accident fatalities in Maine. 

And then there’s the emotional toll. Maybe you’re dealing with injuries, lost wages, or medical bills stacking up by the day. Maybe you can’t stop replaying the accident in your head, wondering what you could’ve done differently. It’s a lot, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. 

The truth is you shouldn’t have to face this alone. With the right steps—and the right team on your side—you can take back control and start to rebuild. 

Compensation Options for Hit-and-Run Victims in Portland, ME 

Here’s the silver lining: even if the driver isn’t caught, you’ve still got options. If you’ve got uninsured motorist coverage as part of your car insurance policy, you can file a claim to cover things like medical bills, vehicle repairs, and even lost wages. Most policies in Maine include this coverage, so there’s a good chance it’s available to you. 

If the driver is identified (and we’ll do everything we can to make that happen), you could also pursue a civil lawsuit in Cumberland County Superior Court. This can help you recover not just the basics but also compensation for things like pain and suffering or long-term impacts from the accident. 

Every case is unique, and we’ll work with you to figure out what’s possible. That’s just one of the benefits of hiring one of the best law firms in America to fight for you. 

Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Portland, ME 

After an accident, your mind’s probably racing. It’s hard to think clearly, but what you do next can make a big difference. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help: 

1. Call the Police. Report the accident right away. The Portland Police Department (at 109 Middle Street) will create an official record that can be important for your case. Share every detail you remember: the car’s make and model, the direction it was heading, or anything else that stood out. 
2. Get Medical Help. Even if you feel “okay,” go see a doctor. Some injuries—like whiplash or concussions—might not show symptoms right away. A trip to Maine Medical Center or your local clinic ensures you’re treated and gives you medical records to back up your claim. 
3. Collect Evidence. Take pictures of everything you can at the scene: your car, the scene, any visible injuries, and even debris on the road. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information. Their testimony can be very important later on. 
4. Reach Out for Legal Help. Don’t wait. The sooner you connect with a lawyer, the stronger your case will be. Most people don’t realize it’s almost never too late to hire a lawyer. 

Why Choose Horn Wright, LLP for Your Hit-and-Run Case 

A hit-and-run accident is more than an inconvenience—it’s a life-changing event. It's your life, health, and future, therefore we treat every client like family. We will listen to your story and fight for your rights doing everything in our powers to get you justice. 

Our Portland car accident attorneys know Maine’s laws inside and out, and we’ve handled countless hit-and-run cases right here in Portland. We will work closely with you to discuss your options, gather evidence, and fight for every penny you are owed. Most importantly, we'll be there every step of the way, so you never have to face this alone. 

Contact us today for a FREE consultation to get started with your case.