Lewiston Joins a Number of Maine Cities Looking to Increase Safety for Pedestrians

According to a recent article, the city of Lewiston is actively addressing traffic safety concerns by focusing on areas with high accident rates. A recent study analyzing data from 2012 to 2023 identified several high-crash corridors:

Main Street (Auburn line to Sabattus Street): Recorded 43 injury-causing crashes, including three fatalities.

Sabattus Street (East Avenue to Pond Road): Experienced 86 injury crashes, with 30 categorized as serious and 56 as minor injuries.

Lisbon Street (Adams Avenue to East Avenue): Noted 18 injury crashes and two fatalities.

During this period, Lewiston saw a total of 9,432 crashes, with approximately 75% resulting in no injuries. Notably, 7,880 of these incidents occurred at intersections, highlighting the need for targeted safety measures. In response, city officials plan to initiate improvement projects along Main Street starting next month. Public Works Director Kevin Gagne emphasized the city's commitment to implementing the Safety Action Plan promptly, ensuring it doesn't remain inactive. City councilors have expressed support for enhancing pedestrian infrastructure. Councilor Josh Nagine highlighted the city's historical financial constraints and the necessity for infrastructure improvements to promote safety and accessibility.

Statewide, Maine experienced a 15-year high in traffic fatalities in 2022, with 181 deaths, including 20 pedestrian fatalities in 2023 and 18 in the previous year. As of early 2025, six pedestrian deaths have occurred, three in Portland. In response, the Portland City Council recently committed to ending pedestrian fatalities in the city. These initiatives reflect a concerted effort to enhance traffic safety and reduce accidents in Lewiston and across Maine.

Pedestrian accidents often result in severe injuries due to the vulnerability of those on foot. Unlike motorists who have the protection of a vehicle, pedestrians are directly exposed to the full force of a collision. Common injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries
• Broken bones and fractures
• Internal organ damage
• Lacerations and contusions

Beyond physical injuries, victims may also suffer from emotional trauma and financial hardships, including medical bills, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation costs. For families who lose a loved one in a pedestrian accident, the emotional and financial toll can be overwhelming.

Maine has seen an increase in pedestrian accidents, highlighting the need for better safety measures to protect those on foot. Some of the most dangerous intersections and roadways require immediate attention to reduce the likelihood of future incidents. Key safety measures include:

• Improved Crosswalks: Clearly marked crosswalks, raised crossings, and better signage can enhance pedestrian visibility and safety.
• Enhanced Traffic Signals: Longer pedestrian crossing times, countdown timers, and dedicated pedestrian-only signals can help prevent accidents.
• Increased Street Lighting: Proper lighting in high-risk areas can improve visibility for both pedestrians and drivers, reducing nighttime accidents.
• Stronger Enforcement of Traffic Laws: Crackdowns on speeding, distracted driving, and failure to yield to pedestrians can create a safer environment.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating both drivers and pedestrians about road safety can help reduce reckless behavior and prevent accidents.

Determining liability in a pedestrian accident is crucial in pursuing compensation for damages. In Maine, both drivers and pedestrians have a duty to follow traffic laws and exercise reasonable care. Some common scenarios in which drivers may be held liable include:

• Failure to Yield: Drivers are required to yield to pedestrians at marked crosswalks and intersections. Failure to do so can result in serious accidents.
• Distracted Driving: Texting, talking on the phone, or other distractions can prevent drivers from noticing pedestrians in time to stop.
• Speeding and Reckless Driving: Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the severity of pedestrian injuries.
• Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol and drugs impair a driver’s ability to react and make sound judgments, making DUI-related pedestrian accidents particularly severe.

In some cases, pedestrians may share some responsibility for an accident, such as jaywalking or crossing against a traffic signal. However, Maine follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning that even if a pedestrian is partially at fault, they may still recover damages as long as they are less than 50% responsible.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, seeking legal representation is essential to protect your rights and secure fair compensation. At Peter Thompson & Associates, we have extensive experience handling pedestrian accident claims and fighting for the justice our clients deserve. We will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your case, gather evidence, and work tirelessly to hold negligent parties accountable.

Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case. Let us help you navigate the legal process and pursue the compensation you need to recover from your injuries and move forward with your life.