Pedestrian Accident Claims in Maine

When traffic signals are not operating, drivers must yield to a pedestrian crossing in a marked crosswalk or who has shown visible intent to enter it, must yield to pedestrians on sidewalks, and may not pass a vehicle stopped for a crossing pedestrian. A pedestrian crossing other than in a marked crosswalk must yield to vehicles, may not cross between adjacent signalized intersections except in a marked crosswalk, and may not suddenly step into the path of a vehicle too close to yield. Drivers passing a pedestrian on the road or shoulder must leave at least 3 feet, and must always use due care to avoid hitting a pedestrian.

Modified comparative negligence. A claim is not defeated by the injured person's own fault, but the damages are reduced by the amount the jury thinks just and equitable given the claimant's share of responsibility. The statute provides that a claimant found by the jury to be equally at fault may not recover.

Proof of financial responsibility for each registered vehicle must be at least $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for bodily injury or death, $25,000 for property damage, $2,000 in medical payments coverage and $500 for towing and storage charges.

Six years. Maine's general rule is that civil actions must be filed within 6 years after the cause of action accrues, unless another statute sets a different period. Personal injury claims fall under this general rule.