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Maine: rules and deadlines at a glance

Every 11 topic we track for Maine on one page. Open a topic for the details, the law it comes from and how Maine compares.

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Car insurance by state · Claim deadlines · Small claims limits · Total loss rules · Dog bite rules · Shared fault rules · Accident reporting rules · Phone-while-driving laws · Motorcycle helmet laws · Uninsured drivers

General information only, not legal, insurance or financial advice. Not affiliated with any government agency. Exceptions can apply; open a topic for the details.

Filing deadlines (statute of limitations)

Personal injury6 years
Property damage6 years

Car insurance by state

Minimum liability$50,000 / $100,000 / $25,000
Fault systemAt-fault (the driver who caused it pays)
Shared-fault ruleModified comparative: barred at 50% fault or more

Claim deadlines Single detailed source

AcknowledgeNo fixed number of days; must act with reasonable promptness
Accept or denyNo fixed number of days
Pay30 days after proof of loss and an agreed amount

Small claims limits Single detailed source

Dollar limit$10,000 (since Jan. 1, 2026; was $6,000)
Filing fee$70
LawyersAllowed

Total loss rules

Total loss ruleTotal loss formula

Dog bite rules Single detailed source

RuleStrict liability
DetailsStrict liability

Shared fault rules

RuleModified comparative negligence (50% bar)
When you are barredBarred if you are 50% or more at fault

Accident reporting rules

Report required ifDeath, injury, or over $1,000 damage
DeadlineImmediately

Phone-while-driving laws Single detailed source

Handheld banYes, all drivers (primary)
Texting banYes, primary

Motorcycle helmet laws Single detailed source

Law typePartial
Who must wear oneRiders under 18, permit holders, new riders (first year) and all passengers

Uninsured drivers

Drivers uninsured5.7%
UM/UIM coverageUninsured and underinsured motorist required