Wrong-Way Car Accident Lawyers in Portland, ME

When the Unthinkable Happens on Roads

Wrong-way accidents are absolutely terrifying. Picture this: you’re driving home from the Portland Farmers' Market or cruising along I-295, and suddenly, a car is speeding toward you in your lane.

It’s the kind of moment that makes your heart stop. These crashes don’t just wreck cars; they can turn lives upside down. The injuries, the trauma, the financial strain—it can all feel like too much to handle.

If you or someone you love has been caught in a road incident, you’re probably feeling overwhelmed. You don’t have to go through this alone.

Our Portland-based personal injury attorneys at Horn Wright, LLP know how devastating these crashes are, and we’ll fight for your rights. Focus on healing and getting your life back on track and leave the rest to us.

What Makes These Accidents So Deadly?

Wrong-way accidents happen when a driver heads the wrong way on a road, usually on highways, one-way streets, or exit ramps. These crashes are especially dangerous because they almost always involve head-on collisions. That kind of impact? It’s brutal and leaves almost no time to react.

What makes these accidents so deadly? It’s the high speeds and the element of surprise. According to a study by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), wrong-way crashes are far more likely to be fatal than other types of accidents.

In Maine, they make up a shocking number of highway fatalities every year. Portland’s busy highways, like I-295 and the Maine Turnpike, aren’t immune. Even a single moment of confusion or poor judgment can lead to disaster.

Why Do Wrong-Way Crashes Happen?

There’s no one-size-fits-all reason why these accidents happen, but a few causes stand out:

• Driver Impairment: Alcohol or drugs are often behind these crashes. Impaired drivers lose their ability to make good decisions and might not even notice they’re driving the wrong way.
• Poor Signage or Road Design: Some roads in Portland can be confusing, especially older ones or intersections that haven’t been updated. Roads near Forest Avenue or even areas around Deering Oaks Park can be tricky. If signs or lane markings aren’t clear, drivers can easily get turned around.
• Driver Confusion: Out-of-towners or inexperienced drivers sometimes misread the signs, especially downtown near one-way streets or near the Casco Bay Bridge.
• Distracted Driving: Whether it’s texting, checking a GPS, or daydreaming, distractions can quickly lead to disaster.

In Portland, with its mix of urban streets and busy highways, these factors come together more often than we’d like. Even with efforts to improve road safety, mistakes and negligence still lead to heartbreak.

The Devastating Aftermath of Wrong-Way Collisions

The injuries from wrong-way accidents are often devastating. The sheer force of a head-on collision can cause life-changing harm, like:

• Head Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are all too common. These can lead to permanent disabilities or completely change someone’s personality and abilities.
• Broken Bones: Fractures are almost guaranteed in these crashes, often requiring surgeries and long months of recovery.
• Internal Trauma: Damage to vital organs or internal bleeding can be life-threatening and isn’t always immediately obvious.

But it’s not just about the physical injuries. The emotional toll can be crushing. Families often struggle with mounting medical bills, lost income, and the emotional pain of watching a loved one suffer. 

In the worst cases, these crashes lead to wrongful deaths, leaving families to pick up the pieces. The aftermath can feel like an impossible mountain to climb.

Fighting for Justice After a Wrong-Way Crash

If you’ve been in a wrong-way crash, you might be wondering what your next steps are. Here’s the deal: in Maine, the driver at fault is responsible for the damages they cause. That means you could be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical bills
• Lost income
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage

In many wrong-way accidents, proving fault is straightforward. Police reports, witness statements, and even traffic cameras can provide clear evidence. But here’s the catch: insurance companies don’t always play fair. 

They’ll do everything they can to pay out as little as possible. That’s why having a strong legal team on your side can make all the difference.

In Portland, dealing with the aftermath of a wrong-way accident often means navigating local police reports, hospital visits, and uncooperative insurance adjusters. 

It’s a lot, especially when you’re already trying to recover. That’s why acting quickly to gather evidence and protect your rights is so important.

Your Advocates for Justice and Recovery

After an accident like this, you just want your life back. As one of the best law firms in America, we work to make that happen. Our team has the experience and determination to handle the tough stuff so you don’t have to.

Here’s how we can help:

• Investigating every detail of your case, from road conditions on I-295 to witness statements near local spots like the Portland Museum of Art.
• Negotiating with insurance companies to make sure you’re not left footing the bill.
• Fighting for every dollar you deserve, whether it’s for medical bills, lost wages, or the pain you’ve endured.

We’ll handle the legal side of things while you focus on healing.  We’re not just your car accident lawyers; we’re your advocates, fighting for justice and the best possible outcome.

Finding Strength After Tragedy Strikes

Wrong-way accidents are devastating, but you have an ally in us. At Horn Wright, LLP, we’re ready to help you navigate this tough time with compassion and expertise. Contact us today to discuss your case. Let’s take the first step toward getting your life back on track.