Survivor to Survivor: A service by victims for victims of substance-related crimes resulting in severe injuries

The service provides an option to connect with someone who has had a similar experience and may be able to help navigate through the system, to help with filling out forms, to listen and possibly make suggestions and to be of encouragement or assistance.

The connections are made through the Office of Victim Services.

Service available in Central Maine only

For more information:
Office of Victim Services
Maine Department of Corrections
(800) 968-6909

Questions and Answers

1. What do I do now?

The first thing to recognize is that you have gone through, and are going through a traumatic experience. You have sustained at least one of the following: physical injury, property damage, emotional trauma.

At least the emotional injury has occurred. The primary focus should be on recovery and restoration. It is a good idea to have a trusted family member or friend help you make the decisions needed to help in your recovery. Do not be afraid to delegate responsibilities to others and do not be pressured into doing something before you are ready. It is not reasonable to consider yourself “tough enough” to handle the situation alone.

2. How do I file a claim with an Insurance Company?

If the incident occurred while you were at work, the employer should be notified as soon as possible. The employer is then required to notify the Workers’ Compensation carrier who will then determine if any injury “arose out of and in the course of your employment”. If automobiles are involved, contact your agent and your insurance carrier and then follow their instructions. Obtain the name and address of the responsible party’s carrier and notify them of your intent to make a claim. Once initial contact has been made, send written correspondence to the involved carriers advising of your loss and need to make a claim. Document everything you can and in cases where coverage is not afforded, request written denial as this may help in seeking reimbursement elsewhere. In the process keep a record of expenses incurred, doctor’s reports, police reports, etc.

3. What kind of information would I need to give to an Insurance Company?

Be prepared to give a detailed account of what happened to the company representative. There are forms to sign that will allow the company to request medical reports, wage information, etc.

4. Do I get an attorney?

Getting legal counsel is always an option. You may wish to do so if the pursuit of reimbursement requires action directly against the responsible party. In other situations, waiting to see what the insurance carrier or carriers will do is the best approach, as seeking legal counsel may not be needed. Each situation is different.*

5. Can I get restitution?

Restitution could be part of a criminal sanction against the person who injured you. When completing the “impact of crime statement”, include a request for restitution. Obviously, financial resources and ability to pay of the responsible party will have an impact on how much you are able to collect and when. Be aware that any payment made to you by an insurance company gives that company the right of recover from the responsible party.

6. Do I fill out a 48-Hour report?

Any incident involving the operation of vehicles on the Maine roads requires a 48-hour report. If you are capable, one should be provided by the investigating police officer, completed by you, and sent to the State. If you aren’t able to fill out the form, your closest relative should do it for you.

*We cannot give legal advice. This information is provided merely to assist in knowing what services and referrals may be available to you.