Maine Injury, Accident, & Disability Law Blog : Maine Personal Injury Lawyer & Attorney : Joe Bornstein Law Firm : Portland Bangor Maine

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• Gas Powered Generators Can Lead To Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
  Posted on March 5, 2010
  In wake of the recent storm that left many Mainers without power, the Department of Health and Human Services Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) has released an important message: Improper operation or placement of gas powered generators...
• Court Fees Can Be Paid Online In Maine
  Posted on March 2, 2010
  Mainers who have an outstanding fine or fee due in any of the state’s courts can now conveniently pay online. Outstanding fine amounts are updated online every Tuesday morning and can be searched by name and date of birth or...
• Free Colon Screening For Maine Residents
  Posted on February 25, 2010
  Underinsured and uninsured Mainers are now eligible for free colon cancer screening. Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer related deaths in the U.S. among men and women over the age of 50. An estimated 900 people in...
• Free Tax Preparation For Mainers
  Posted on February 18, 2010
  If you earned less than $50,000 in 2009, you may be eligible to have your taxes done for free. Every year, thousands of Mainers miss out on income tax credits that they would qualify for, often totaling thousands of dollars...
• Social Security Backlog Delays Benefits
  Posted on February 11, 2010
  A recession, rising unemployment rates, and state budget cuts are making Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) application backlogs worse than ever. The Social Security benefits program provides monthly benefits to those who have health problems...
• Health Care Reaches Out To Veterans
  Posted on February 9, 2010
  Two new community outreach vehicles are travelling through Maine providing veterans with health care. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recently unveiled a fleet of 50 new outreach vehicles that travel to rural communities to meet with veterans. With many...
• Free Fishing Days Hook On With Mainers
  Posted on February 5, 2010
  Mainers love fishing. This weekend they can do it for free. On Saturday, February 13th and Sunday, February 14th, people can fish for free on Maine’s waterways. The free fishing event is open to all anglers except those whose license...
• Heart Health Month Helps Mainers Get Healthy
  Posted on February 1, 2010
  February is Heart Health Month. Established in 1963, Heart Health Month is a nationwide campaign designed to educate Americans on the benefits of making healthy living choices to improve cardiovascular health. Considered among the most preventable diseases, heart disease is...
• Truck And Bus Drivers Banned From Text Messaging When Behind The Wheel
  Posted on January 29, 2010
  A new federal law prohibits truck and bus drivers from sending or reading text messages while driving. The new law was established to help reduce the number of accidents involving “big rigs” and is effective immediately. Truck and bus drivers...
• Keep Pipes From Freezing During A Cold Maine Winter
  Posted on January 27, 2010
  Every winter, cold weather comes to Maine, and with it the risk of pipes freezing. When pipes freeze, serious damage can result. When water freezes, it expands. For example, if you were to put a can of soda in a...
• Operation Keep ME Warm Helps Heat Maine
  Posted on January 25, 2010
  Operation Keep ME Warm is helping thousands of Mainers this winter cope with rising energy costs. The statewide energy and heating assistance program is a partnership between government foundations, private contributions, volunteers, and advocacy groups. The goal of Operation Keep...
• Distracted Pedestrians Walk Into Accidents
  Posted on January 21, 2010
  Distracted drivers have generated much attention over the past few years -- Enough to get many states to ban cell phone usage and text messaging while operating a motor vehicle. Lately, however, a new phenomenon has emerged: distracted walking. As...
• MLK Jr. Breakfast Celebrates Diversity Locally
  Posted on January 19, 2010
  On Monday, January 18th, the Portland Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) hosted a breakfast to honor Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King Jr. The annual event celebrates the life of the late doctor and...
• Winter Driving Safety Tips Help Prevent Accidents
  Posted on January 15, 2010
  Driving during the winter can be dangerous. Roads are slick with snow and ice, and it gets dark early, limiting one’s visibility. And despite the fact that many Mainers have lived in-state for much of their lives and have experience...
• Maine Housing Search Makes Moving Easy
  Posted on January 13, 2010
  A new website is making finding a new home or apartment in Maine easier. Mainehousingsearch.org is an online rental listing service that “links people who need housing with the housing they need.” Funded by the Maine State Housing Authority, the...
• Maine Heating Assistance Helps Keep You Warm
  Posted on January 11, 2010
  With winter in mid-season form, Mainers are feeling the freeze. Unfortunately, when temperatures drop, oil prices don’t typically follow. There are, however, programs that can help Mainers heat their homes during a cold frigid winter. The Low Income Home Energy...
• Car Accidents In Maine: Ten Important Steps To Take After An Accident
  Posted on January 8, 2010
  It’s inevitable that car accidents happen. Even with proper safety precautions, accidents happen daily. With hope, they won’t include you or a loved one, but they are, however, accidents. And the worst part is that they’re unpredictable. While no one...
• Snowmobile Safety Helps Prevent Accidents
  Posted on January 7, 2010
  After nine deaths in the 2009 season, the state of Maine is stressing snowmobile safety this winter. The safety campaign is asking snowmobilers to “ride right, ride smart, and ride responsibly.” Snowmobiling is one of Maine’s favorite pastimes. With 13,000...
• Texting While Driving Bans Increase
  Posted on January 5, 2010
  On January 1st, New Hampshire became the latest state to make texting while driving illegal. Maine’s southerly neighbor joined the ranks of seventeen other states, Guam, and the District of Columbia, where driver safety is of utmost importance. In New...
• Maine High School Hockey Invitational Shoots And Scores
  Posted on January 4, 2010
  The Maine High School Hockey Invitational was once again a resounding success. The ninth annual tournament featured 38 teams from Maine, New England and Canada, and wowed the locals with some of the best high school hockey around. Considered one...
• Message To Maine Drivers: Survive Your Drive
  Posted on December 30, 2009
  The Maine Bureau of Highway Safety has developed a campaign to help make highways safer. Survive Your Drive was created to inform Mainers on the importance of safe driving and how to avoid behaviors that lead to fatal crashes. The...
• 'Tis The Season To Say Thanks
  Posted on December 23, 2009
  The holiday season is a time to celebrate with family and friends. A time to be together with the ones we love, thankful for all that we have. And as the calendar turns the page on another year, into a...
• Obstructed Windshields In Winter: Clear The Snow
  Posted on December 18, 2009
  After a dusting of snow, sleet, freezing rain, or hail, it’s necessary to clean off your windshield. It’s necessary in order to see and drive safely, and now it’s necessary because it’s the law. Maine State Police are warning drivers...
• Carbon Monoxide Detectors Now Mandatory In Homes
  Posted on December 15, 2009
  New home owners in Maine must now prove that their house has a carbon monoxide detector. A new Maine law is designed to reduce the risk of poisoning by carbon monoxide. The colorless, odorless, and invisible gas is a byproduct...
• Maine Law Firms Celebrate Pro Bono Week
  Posted on December 8, 2009
  Lawyers have long donated their time and services to help many great causes. Today, amidst difficult economic times, access to lawyers and justice is more challenging than ever. Which is why the American Bar Association established Pro Bono Week. The...
• Maine Cracks Down On Drunk Driving During Holiday Season
  Posted on December 4, 2009
  The Maine Bureau of Highway Safety is supporting a statewide crackdown on impaired driving. The sustained holiday enforcement period runs from December 16th - January 3rd and will attempt to save lives during the holiday season. Thirty-two local police departments,...
• Portland Community Health Center Now Open For Patients
  Posted on December 1, 2009
  The Portland Community Health Center recently opened in the Parkside neighborhood of Portland, Maine. The healthcare center is a full-service primary care medical facility serving Greater Portland, and is a welcome addition to the area as Mercy Hospital and Maine...
• In Maine, Utilities Stay On During Winter Months
  Posted on November 24, 2009
  According to the Maine Utility Regulators, Mainers who make an attempt to pay their utility bills will not have them shutoff during the winter. The grace period runs from November 15, 2009 to April 15, 2010. The Public Utilities Commission...
• Flu Shots Available In Maine
  Posted on November 20, 2009
  As the number of people suffering from seasonal and H1N1 flu complications increases, more and more people are contemplating getting vaccinated. The good news is that help is available for Mainers. The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention and...
• Zimmer Hip Replacement Recall
  Posted on November 16, 2009
  Between 2006 - 2008, over 12,000 hip replacement patients were implanted with the Zimmer Durom prosthesis cup. The product was designed for use in young, active patients likely to outlive a conventional hip prosthesis. Unfortunately, many of these patients have...
• New Heating Law Saves Renters Money
  Posted on November 13, 2009
  A new energy law can save renters money this winter. The new law states that tenants and landlords can negotiate a rent decrease if heat in a place of residence is kept under 68 degrees. The idea is that by...
• Texting While Driving: A Dangerous Distraction
  Posted on November 9, 2009
  A new poll by CBS News shows that nearly all Americans think texting while driving should be illegal. According to the poll, 97% of those surveyed feel the dangers and risks of texting while driving and the subsequent results are...
• Maine Cancer Survivors Day Preempts Breast Cancer Awareness Month
  Posted on October 30, 2009
  October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in the United States. Two weeks prior, Maine celebrated cancer survivors. The 11th annual Cancer Survivors Day was held at the Harold Alfond Center for Cancer Care in Augusta on September 12th. The...
• Maine State Bar Association Prepares Students To Be "On Your Own"
  Posted on October 26, 2009
  The Maine State Bar Association (MSBA) has prepared a booklet to help “prepare young people for some of the legal complexities of adulthood." The free booklet, On Your Own, is the MSBA's guide to law for young adults and is...
• Maine Smoking Laws Get Stricter
  Posted on October 22, 2009
  On September 12th, the State of Maine made smoking in public more difficult. Two new anti-smoking laws were established, making Maine one of the most smoke-free states in the U.S. New Smoking Law #1: Outdoor Dining Areas Must Now Be...
• Car Accident Fatalities In Maine And Across The Nation Down
  Posted on October 20, 2009
  Despite more distractions than ever for drivers on the road, car accident fatalities are declining. According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), the rate of driver fatalities is at the lowest it’s been since the government began tracking...
• Maine ATV Accidents: New Law Respects The Rider
  Posted on October 16, 2009
  Prior to September 12, 2009, game wardens in Maine could stop an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) regardless if a violation had occurred. Now, a warden must have reasonable suspicion that an operator has violated the law before stopping an ATV. The...
• Fire Prevention Week Honors Local Firefighter
  Posted on October 15, 2009
  October 4th-10th was National Fire Prevention Week, a time when fire education spreads through the U.S. like wildfire. This year, however, the celebration hit close to home on a more somber note. On November 17, 2008, firefighter Michael Snowman of...
• New Motorcycle Helmet Law For Minors
  Posted on October 13, 2009
  Motorcyclists and passengers under the age of 18 must now wear a helmet. Previously, bikers and passengers on motorcycles under the age of 15 were required to wear helmets, however, a recently passed law is making motorcycle safety mandatory. Motorcyclists...
• Car Accidents In Rural Areas On The Rise
  Posted on October 8, 2009
  According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorists in rural areas are more likely to die in motor vehicle accidents than those in urban areas. Despite more motor vehicle accidents occurring in congested areas, and only 20 percent...
• Levaquin Linked To Tendon Injuries
  Posted on October 6, 2009
  Used to treat bacterial infections of the skin, sinuses, kidneys, bladder, or prostate, the prescription drug Levaquin has been linked to an increased risk of tendinitis and tendon ruptures. First approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1996,...
• Biddeford Celebrates Chalk Art Festival
  Posted on October 2, 2009
  On Saturday September 26th, downtown Biddeford filled with artists, musicians, and locals looking for a day of fun at the 5th annual Chalk on the Walk Festival. Organized by the Heart of Biddeford, the festival celebrated community as artists covered...
• Reglan Linked To Involuntary Muscle Movement
  Posted on September 29, 2009
  Reglan, the prescription drug used to treat gastrointestinal conditions in children and adults, is under investigation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Also known by the generic name, metoclopramide, the drug has been linked to Tardive Dyskinesia, an...
• Pedestrian Safety: Make Room For A New Law
  Posted on September 25, 2009
  Pedestrians, by law, now have more room to run and walk when on the road. A new law protecting pedestrian safety states that drivers must leave at least three feet of clearance between their vehicle and a pedestrian when passing....
• Swine Flu Prevention And Health Safety Tips
  Posted on September 22, 2009
  As the weather cools towards winter, colds, flu’s and virus’s become more and more prominent. And with the cooler temperature comes an increased amount of time spent indoors for Mainers, enhancing the opportunity for germs to spread throughout your home...
• Yaz/Yasmin Birth Control Drugs Under Investigation
  Posted on September 18, 2009
  The birth control drugs Yaz, Yasmin, and the generic Ocella, are under investigation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The oral contraceptive pills have been linked to blood clots, heart attacks, and strokes. Gallbladder disease is also a...
• UBM Toy Run Rides Its Way To Success
  Posted on September 15, 2009
  On Sunday, September 13th more than 14,000 motorcyclists rode to support underprivileged children in the 28th annual United Bikers of Maine Toy Run. The Toy Run, as it’s more commonly known, gathers bikers from across the state for a day...
• Distracted Driver Law Keeps Eyes On The Road
  Posted on September 10, 2009
  Beginning September 12, a new Maine law will help alter the course of accidents. Now, no longer can a driver operate a vehicle while distracted without being penalized. The new distracted driver law is an attempt to cut down on...
• Back To School Safety Tips
  Posted on September 8, 2009
  With summer officially a thing of the past and cooler fall temperatures beginning to highlight the surrounding scenery, students are back in school. Between classes, extracurricular activities, and homework, children start the school day with gusto, with little rest until...
• Labor Day Celebrates The Working Class
  Posted on September 4, 2009
  Unofficially known as the end of summer, Labor Day is a celebration of the social and economic achievements of the American workforce. Highlighted by a long weekend, the holiday is a tribute to the contributions workers have made to the...
• Over The Limit? Under Arrest!
  Posted on September 1, 2009
  'Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest' 'Drinking and Driving'
• A Picture's Worth A Thousand Words
  Posted on August 28, 2009
  We’ve all heard the adage, “A Picture’s Worth A Thousand Words.” It resonates with vacations, childhood memories and family celebrations, telling the stories of time. A picture can be looked upon again and again to help recreate a moment and...
• Buckle Up For You And Your Baby
  Posted on August 25, 2009
  Each year, there are approximately 170,000 car crashes in the United States involving pregnant women. As a result, as many as 400 unborn babies die annually, making it the biggest injury related danger to the unborn. And while there has...
• Sights At State Fairs Fill Walls Of State Capitol
  Posted on August 19, 2009
  The tradition of Mainers passing through fairgrounds appeasing their senses is generations old. Between the sights of families together, the sounds of carnies on the midway, the smell of food in the air, and the taste of the good life,...
• Maine Holocaust Museum Recognized Nationally
  Posted on August 12, 2009
  The Holocaust and Human Rights Center of Maine (HHRC) recently received an institute award for its structural design. The Center was one of eleven buildings recognized in the 2009 Innovative Design in Engineering and Architecture with Structural Steel awards program...
• Explore Maine Before You Go
  Posted on August 5, 2009
  There’s little wonder why Maine is known as Vacationland. From the mountains and the lakes to the beaches and the rocky coast, there’s no escaping our state’s natural beauty. Home to a renowned national park, a 92-mile waterway, and 35...
• Social Security Team Reaches Out To Help
  Posted on July 31, 2009
  As a special service to health care providers and their patients, the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein is proud to offer our Social Security Outreach Program. The program is designed to teach medical providers knowledge on the federal Social Security...
• Texting While Driving Is Dangerous
  Posted on July 28, 2009
  A recent study found that texting while driving is among the most dangerous things a driver can do. The study monitored truck drivers via in-cab video cameras to find that the risk of accident increases 23 times when sending or...
• Day Long Festivals Celebrate Diversity In Maine
  Posted on July 24, 2009
  On Saturday July 25th, The Festival of Nations will celebrate diversity in Maine. Over twenty different cultures and their traditions will be on display at Deering Oaks in Portland offering entertainment, education, and typical food from the representing nations. The...
• Nursing Home Neglect
  Posted on July 20, 2009
  Making the transition to a nursing home is a life changing decision. As our elderly become less independent, there comes a time when moving to a nursing home may be inevitable. It is our hope, expectancy, and assumption that...
• Walk Safe As A Pedestrian
  Posted on July 15, 2009
  With summer in full swing, many Mainers are putting their feet to use. Whether it’s before work, after work or on the way to work, walking is en vogue again. The benefits of a summer stroll are numerous. Be it...
• Hooked On Fishing - Not On Drugs
  Posted on July 10, 2009
  With over 2,000 lakes and ponds and nearly 3,500 miles of coastline, opportunities to fish are abundant in Maine. Be it stripers running up the coast, salmon swimming downstream, or trout at the bottom of a brook, fishing in Maine...
• Caring Through Charity
  Posted on July 8, 2009
  At the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein we are proud to give back to the communities that our clients come from. With a state wide practice and five local offices in Biddeford, Portland, Lewiston, Augusta, and Bangor, we see the...
• Grill Often And Grill Safe
  Posted on July 6, 2009
  In Maine, we don’t need an excuse like warm weather to fire up the grill. We’ll cookout come rain or shine, sleet or snow, morning, noon and night. But since the humidity is here, there’s nothing quite like a summer...
• Celebrate Independence Day The Right Way
  Posted on July 2, 2009
  This July Fourth marks the 233rd anniversary of America’s independence from Great Britain. It also represents what the United States is best known for, freedom. The national holiday commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and is...
• Operation Dry Water Keeps Our Boaters Safe
  Posted on June 30, 2009
  The weekend of June 26th marked the first ever nationally coordinated attempt to detect and decrease drinking while boating. Operation Dry Water, as the program is called, was intended to raise awareness on the dangers of drinking and boating, and...
• Festival Season Is Festive
  Posted on June 26, 2009
  Summer in Maine is a special time whether you’re a lifelong resident or a weeklong tourist. Be it lounging lakeside, sitting on the sand of your favorite beach, or navigating through one of Maine’s many nature trails, there’s no lack...
• Cromwell Center Celebrates Caring
  Posted on June 22, 2009
  On June 18, the Cromwell Center for Disabilities Awareness held their annual awards dinner and silent auction. This year’s event celebrated Les Otten as the Center’s Person of the Year and raised over $100,000 for the non-profit organization. Otten has...
• Maine Resident Receives Annual Art Award
  Posted on June 19, 2009
  Robert Indiana, a Vinalhaven resident best known for his work during the Pop Art movement of the 1960’s, has been named the recipient of the 2009 Maine in America Award. The annual award is given by the Farnsworth Art Museum...
• Plan To Drive In Maine This Summer Online
  Posted on June 17, 2009
  Traveling in Maine this summer? Worried about spending your summer stuck behind tourists and construction vehicles? Well, thanks to the Maine Department of Transportation’s travel information service, you may not have to. Commuters, tourists, and travelers alike can now access...
• Protect Yourself In The Summer Sun
  Posted on June 15, 2009
  As summer starts to heat up and the temperature rises, so does the strength of the sun. And while the hot and humid season is short in Maine and reason enough to be outside at all times, it’s important to...
• High School Seniors Send Message To "Arrive Alive"
  Posted on June 12, 2009
  The Law Offices of Joe Bornstein is pleased to announce that our fifth annual Arrive Alive Creative Contest has come to a close. The contest asks graduating seniors to think creatively and come up with a message for their peers...
• Be Safe In Your Boat This Summer
  Posted on June 8, 2009
  With warm weather on the horizon, Mainers are getting their boats ready for the upcoming boating season. Be it on the lake or in the open ocean, summer is the season to be on the water. But if floating freely...
• Don't Forget To Pack Your Passport
  Posted on June 5, 2009
  Beginning June 1st, travelers wishing to reenter the U.S. at land or sea borders must now show a passport. Neighboring countries that once accepted a valid driver’s license for such travel – Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean – now...
• Local Mainers Honored At Muskie Dinner
  Posted on June 2, 2009
  On May 27th, the Muskie Fund For Legal Services held their 14th annual Access to Justice Award Dinner. This year’s dinner honored Charlie and Ellie Miller for their commitment to strengthening Maine’s civil justice system. Founded in 1995, The Muskie...
• Law Offices of Joe Bornstein Adds Two Top Attorneys
  Posted on May 29, 2009
  The Law Offices of Joe Bornstein is pleased to announce the addition of two new attorneys, David R. Miller and Andrew J. Bernstein. The two lawyers specialize in Social Security Disability law and round out a staff of nine attorneys...
• Seniors Save On Car Insurance
  Posted on May 27, 2009
  The Association for the Advancement of Retired Persons (AARP) has been offering refresher courses for drivers age 55 and older for the past 25 years. Now, the same driver’s safety course is being offered online. And for those that take...
• MCLU Celebrates Scolnick Dinner
  Posted on May 26, 2009
  On May 6, the Maine Civil Liberties Union (MCLU) celebrated their 41st anniversary with their annual Justice Louis Scolnick Award Dinner. Each year at the dinner, the MCLU honors an outstanding member of Maine’s legal community. This year’s event celebrated...
• A Memorial Day Moment
  Posted on May 22, 2009
  Memorial Day in Maine unofficially marks the beginning of summer. The weather takes a turn for the better, the days are longer and the nights more mild. Many Mainers spend the long weekend cleaning out garages, watering perennials, and firing...
• Mesothelioma On The Rise In Maine
  Posted on May 18, 2009
  A new federal agency report states that Maine has the highest rate of death resulting from Mesothelioma in the United States. A study from 1999-2005 showed that there were over 170 fatalities during those seven years in Maine alone. According...
• Stamp Increase For First Class
  Posted on May 13, 2009
  On May 11th, the price of a first-class stamp increased by 2 cents to 44 cents. The rate increase is the fourth consecutive year postage has gone up in the U.S., and is an attempt to offset rising operational costs...
• May Means Motorcycle Safety
  Posted on May 8, 2009
  Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is a national initiative aimed at getting drivers and motorcyclists to “Share the Road.” Typically, May is one of the deadliest months for bikers, as many begin riding again after taking the winter months off. 2007...
• Law Day Celebrated Throughout The Land
  Posted on May 5, 2009
  On May 1st, Law Day was celebrated in the United States. The day is dedicated to highlighting how law and the legal process contribute to our country’s freedom. Each year, Law Day has a theme. This year’s 31st annual Law...
• Keeping Green With Joe Bornstein
  Posted on May 1, 2009
  As Earth Month comes to close, we at the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein would like to take a moment to highlight some of our environmentally conscious choices. With a state wide practice and five conveniently located offices, we cast...
• Bornstein's Blog Turns One
  Posted on May 1, 2009
  May celebrates the first anniversary of Maine’s premier personal injury law blog. With nearly 100 unique posts in the past year, The Law Offices of Joe Bornstein’s blog has kept Mainers both informed and entertained. With up-to-date information on the...
• Maine Rolls Out The Red Carpet For African Films
  Posted on April 27, 2009
  The Maine African Film Festival (MAFF) screened twenty-seven movies last week in what was their first annual celebration of the people and cultures of Africa. The weeklong event aimed to bridge the gap between postcolonial Africa and the U.S., and...
• USM Hosts Acclaimed Author And Human Rights Activist
  Posted on April 21, 2009
  Each year the University of Southern Maine hosts a lecture regarding genocide and human rights throughout the world. This year’s event featured guest speaker Ishmael Beah, a former child soldier in West Africa, who spoke of his experience in his...
• National Work Zone Week's Drive to Survive
  Posted on April 17, 2009
  Last week marked the 10th anniversary of National Work Zone Awareness Week. The weeklong safety campaign marks the beginning of construction season and educates drivers on the dangers of travelling through and working in highway construction and repair sites. Each...
• New Anthem Website Offers Help Around The Clock
  Posted on April 14, 2009
  For those who have health insurance through Anthem Blue Cross, there is a new website designed to make you and your family healthier. 360° Health is an all encompassing website that focuses on wellbeing and offers its members resources, links...
• Ask Medicare For Advice
  Posted on April 10, 2009
  Medicare has a new online service intended for caregivers. The website, Ask Medicare, is a resource for those who care for loved ones, friends and neighbors, providing information to assist in making educated healthcare decisions. The purpose of the website...
• Maine Jewish Film Festival Considered A Hit
  Posted on April 6, 2009
  Each year, the Maine Jewish Film Festival screens approximately 20 films from around the world. The films, while having ties to Judaism, are enjoyed by movie lovers of all ages, backgrounds, and religions. This year marked the nonprofit organization’s twelfth...
• Disaster Strikes Biddeford Office
  Posted on April 2, 2009
  
• Supreme Court Rules Against Pharmaceutical Company
  Posted on March 27, 2009
  On March 3, 2009, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled against a pharmaceutical manufacturer, stating that federal approval of prescription drugs does not prevent lawsuits from injured patients. The ruling came in the case of Wyeth v. Levine. In August 2000,...
• Girls' Day At The State House
  Posted on March 27, 2009
  On March 19, 2009, the Maine Women’s Policy Center invited 100 eighth grade girls to Augusta to participate in the 13th annual Girls' Day at the State House. The students joined nearly 60 volunteers, lobbyists, and legislators for a day...
• Retire Online
  Posted on March 23, 2009
  With an estimated 80 million baby boomers expected to retire in the next twenty years, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has created a new service that allows Americans to apply for their benefits online. In keeping with the times, the...
• Moose Spring To Life
  Posted on March 23, 2009
  For as pretty and as sought after as the state animal may be, moose can present quite the problem for Mainers. Growing upwards of nine feet and weighing nearly 1,600 pounds, moose may be a joy to look at, but...
• High School Seniors Arrive Alive With Joe Bornstein
  Posted on March 20, 2009
  The Law Offices of Joe Bornstein is pleased to announce the continuation of its high school scholarship program with our fifth annual Arrive Alive Creative Contest. The contest is open to graduating seniors who wish to send a message to...
• Celebrating Heroes With Heart
  Posted on March 13, 2009
  On February 27, 2009 the Community Counseling Center held its fourth annual Heroes with Heart Awards Dinner and Silent Auction to celebrate their Trauma Intervention Program (TIP). The program trains citizen volunteers to provide emotional and practical support to victims...
• Kidney Injury Following Colonoscopy
  Posted on March 6, 2009
  Popular bowel cleansing products (Oral Sodium Phosphate) linked to kidney failure. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has become aware of problems associated with Oral Sodium Phosphate products (OSP). The products, which are used for bowel cleansing before certain...
• Law Night Ruled A Success
  Posted on February 27, 2009
  On Thursday February 26th The Law Offices of Joe Bornstein remained open well into the night to give Mainers everywhere an even greater access to justice. “Law Night,” as the promotion is called, is designed to give those who may...
• Fosomax The Next Vioxx?
  Posted on February 20, 2009
  A study recently published in the Journal of the American Dental Association says that people taking the drug Fosomax may be at risk of developing a rare disorder called osteonecrosis. The disease is a condition marked by pain, swelling, and...
• Gary's House Hosts Families And Functions
  Posted on February 13, 2009
  On February 12th, Gary’s House held its 4th annual Dine Around The World Food and Wine Tasting Extravaganza at the Holiday Inn by the Bay in Portland. The event featured food and drinks from some of the area’s top restaurants...
• Turnpike Tolls On The Rise Again
  Posted on February 2, 2009
  For the second time in four years the tolls on the Maine Turnpike have gone up. The increase comes one year earlier than planned, as the state looks to fund highway and bridge repairs, as well as combat the increase...
• Right Of Conscience Or Right Of Refusal?
  Posted on January 27, 2009
  A new federal regulation has expanded the rights of healthcare workers in the U.S. The law, known as the “Right of Conscience,” allows healthcare workers to deny services to patients in which they morally object. The new statute, which was...
• Inauguration Brings Change To Life
  Posted on January 23, 2009
  On Monday January 19, 2009, the United States celebrated the life of Martin Luther King, Jr. The following day’s presidential inauguration proved that the late doctor’s dream is very much alive. The commencement of Barack Obama’s presidency was historic, as...
• Tips For Maintaining Your Car In The Cold
  Posted on January 19, 2009
  With winter in midseason form and January on record as one of the coldest months in Maine’s history, Mainer’s have to do all that they can to keep themselves and their cars operating in tiptop condition. With greater Portland averaging...
• Joe Bornstein Settles One On The Ice
  Posted on January 16, 2009
  Each winter some of New England and Canada’s top high school hockey teams come to Maine to test their skills. This year’s Maine High School Hockey Invitational proved to be no exception. The round robin tournament is considered among the...
• Snowmobile Safety Tips
  Posted on January 12, 2009
  When winter hits Maine, many residents look to our vast winter wonderland for fun. And as soon as snow blankets the ground, so do snowmobiles. Snowmobiling may be a favorite pastime of Mainers, but while entertaining, it is also dangerous....
• New Website Rates Nursing Homes
  Posted on January 9, 2009
  The U.S. Government has created a new website that provides quality ratings for each of the nation’s 16,000 Medicare and/or Medicaid nursing homes. The website, Nursing Home Compare, rates each facility on a five-star rating in three critical areas: health...
• Ruff Ruff - It's Time To Register Your Dog
  Posted on January 5, 2009
  January is the month to register your dog in Maine, and all dogs over the age of 6 months must be licensed by the end of the month for 2009. The renewal and registration process can be completed online at...
• Joe Bornstein "Adopts-A-Family"
  Posted on January 2, 2009
  The holiday season is a special time for family, friends, and fun, but that special time can be difficult if you or a loved one has been seriously injured or disabled. The stress of a debilitating injury can leave one...
• Winter Driving Safety Tips
  Posted on December 31, 2008
  Over the course of a Maine winter, Mother Nature tests even the savviest of drivers with snow, sleet, and freezing rain. And with the ample amount of precipitation that our state receives, it is to be expected that roads will...
• Number Of Insured Drops With The Economy
  Posted on December 26, 2008
  As the economy continues its downfall, and unemployment rates reach new heights, more and more drivers are letting their car insurance lapse, putting both themselves and others at risk. According to the Insurance Research Council, several hundreds of thousands of...
• Joe Bornstein's Holiday Cheer
  Posted on December 23, 2008
  The season's changed to winter and the snow is yet to come. The holidays are upon us as the drums plays rum pum pum. Candles illuminate windows, and burn in menorahs too, The holidays are a time to rejoice...
• FDA Orders Suicide Warnings On Epilepsy Drugs
  Posted on December 19, 2008
  Makers of epilepsy drugs must now add a warning that states the medicines carry a risk of suicidal thoughts or actions. The companies must also develop a patient-friendly guide explaining the risks. In January 2008 the Food and Drug Administration...
• How To Deal With Weather Related Property Damage
  Posted on December 15, 2008
  In the wake of the ice storm on Friday December 12, 2008, the Maine Bureau of Insurance has outlined the proper steps to take when filing for weather reported property damage. Mainers are advised to follow these procedures when safe...
• Holiday Season Safety Tips
  Posted on December 8, 2008
  The holiday season is upon us, and that means an abundance of decorations, dreidels, and desserts. But with all of the causes for celebration comes an increase risk in all things safety-related. And while it’s exciting to be swept up...
• When Roads Get Slick - The Slick Wear Seat Belts
  Posted on December 5, 2008
  With winter upon us, and snow and ice inevitable, driving conditions can take a turn for the worse at the drop of a flake. And while it is mandatory for everyone in the state of Maine to wear a seatbelt,...
• Ride The Bus For Free On Fridays
  Posted on December 1, 2008
  In an attempt to increase ridership, public transit buses in Maine will be free on Fridays through the end of 2008. Free Fare Fridays is a month-long campaign designed to educate Mainers about low-cost transit options available throughout the state....
• A Time To Be Thankful
  Posted on November 26, 2008
  When talks turn to our economy, it’s easy to get anxiety in regards to our country’s current state of affairs. And with the uncertainty of the future, that anxiety is as much justified as it is tangible. But if there’s...
• Process To Renew Driver's License Changes
  Posted on November 24, 2008
  Beginning November 15, 2008, obtaining or renewing a driver’s license in the State of Maine has become more difficult. Applicants must now prove that they are both a Maine resident, and either a U.S. citizen or in the county legally....
• Don't Hang Out In The "No-Zone"
  Posted on November 19, 2008
  Buses, 18-wheelers and RV’s are notorious for having blind spots. In addition to not being able to see behind their vehicle, drivers also have difficulty seeing directly in front of them, and to either side starting at the end of...
• Medicare Plans Set To Change - Are You?
  Posted on November 17, 2008
  Each year Medicare plans are subject to change, and each year those individuals enrolled in the health care program may change their coverage during the “Open Enrollment Period” that runs from November 15th through December 31st. During this time, beneficiaries...
• Law Night - Back By Popular Demand
  Posted on November 14, 2008
  This Thursday, November 20, 2008, The Law Offices of Joe Bornstein will be extending our business hours once again for Mainers who do not have access to a phone during the daytime. Our office will remain open until 10pm to...
• Find and Compare Hospitals Online
  Posted on November 11, 2008
  The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has created a website for consumers to compare hospitals and the medical procedures they provide. Visitors to the website: www.hhs.gov, can view data, graphs, and tables comparing and contrasting different hospitals and...
• Off-Road Vehicle Being Investigated For Safety
  Posted on November 7, 2008
  The Yamaha Rhino, a popular off-road vehicle, is being investigated for improper safety. The two-seat UTV (Utility Terrain Vehicle), used primarily for trail riding, on farms, and for hunting, was recently featured in a front page article in the Wall...
• Joe Bornstein Opens New Augusta Office
  Posted on October 31, 2008
  The Law Offices of Joe Bornstein is proud to announce the grand opening of our newest law office located at 285 State Street in Augusta. Conveniently located in the state capital, our new office will give Mainers from Kennebec, Lincoln,...
• Health Care For Kids
  Posted on October 24, 2008
  The State of Maine is urging parents to enroll their children in health care coverage so they can get the medical attention they need to stay well and to succeed. With nearly 19,000 children and teens uninsured in the state...
• Trick Or Treat - Halloween Safety Tips
  Posted on October 24, 2008
  Halloween has long been one of children’s favorite holidays. Between dressing in costumes, bobbing for apples, and going door-to-door collecting candy, kids in the U.S. have been celebrating Halloween since the nineteenth century. But while costume parties, haunted houses, and...
• Keeping Seniors At Home
  Posted on October 17, 2008
  As the number of senior citizens in Maine continues to grow, fewer and fewer elders can afford to pay for assisted living, congregate housing, or nursing home care. And when compared to staying at home in one’s local community with...
• Life Flight Turns Ten
  Posted on October 17, 2008
  Since its inception, LifeFlight of Maine has transported over 8,000 critically ill and injured Mainers to state emergency rooms. Now, in its tenth year of operation, the nationally renowned helicopter service looks to expand its services by adding a helicopter...
• Free Screening Offered For Women With No Insurance
  Posted on October 10, 2008
  In celebration of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Southern Maine Medical Center and Leavitt’s Mill Health Center will be hosting free healthcare screening days for women ages 40 to 64 who have limited or no insurance. The screenings will...
• Local Artists Talk With Chalk
  Posted on October 7, 2008
  Each year local artists and businesses join together in Biddeford for a day of art, music, and fun in the annual Chalk On The Walk festival. Organized by the Heart of Biddeford, this year’s fourth annual festival took place on...
• Cold Remedies Not Advised For Children Under Four
  Posted on October 3, 2008
  In a concession to pediatricians who have long debated whether over-the-counter remedies are effective to young children, companies who produce medicines such as Dimetapp and Pediacare are now advising parents not to give cold and cough medicines to children under...
• Stop Identity Theft Before It Happens To You
  Posted on September 30, 2008
  According to the Federal Trade Commission approximately 9 million people have their identities stolen each year. Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal identifying information such as your contact information, Social Security number, or credit card number with the...
• Using A Woodstove Or Fireplace This Winter? Then Read These Safety Tips!
  Posted on September 26, 2008
  With autumn upon us and temperatures beginning to drop, Mainers will soon begin to heat their homes. And with the increased cost in heating oil, residents will be looking for other ways to keep warm. The two most common alternative...
• New Website Weighs Risk of Meds
  Posted on September 22, 2008
  A new website weighs the benefits and risks of medications. Pfizer, a leading manufacturer for pharmaceuticals, developed a website to educate people on relevant information regarding a variety of medicine. The interactive website is designed to be in “plain English”...
• Bikers and Bornstein Team Up In Annual Toy Run
  Posted on September 18, 2008
  The twenty-seventh annual United Bikers of Maine Toy Run took place September 14, 2008. Motorcyclists from around Maine gathered at the Augusta Civic Center with new toys in tow and rode in unison to the Windsor Fairgrounds, where their toys...
• Illegal To Idle
  Posted on September 15, 2008
  'Portland, Maine' 'idle law' 'Maine Law'
• Message To Parents: Avoid Children's Clothing With Drawstrings
  Posted on September 12, 2008
  The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) advises parents to avoid dressing their children in clothing that have drawstrings around the neck of the garment, including sweatshirts, jackets, and other such items. The drawstrings have the potential to catch on...
• Preparing For An Emergency
  Posted on September 9, 2008
  The State of Maine is advising citizens to prepare and maintain a home emergency kit. With hurricane season in full effect and winter looming on the horizon, state officials recommend that now is the time to prepare for a natural...
• Illegal To Smoke In Car With Children
  Posted on September 2, 2008
  A new statewide law made it illegal to smoke in a vehicle with children. Beginning September 1, 2008, it is now illegal to smoke in a vehicle in the State of Maine when children under the age of 16 are...
• Back To School Tips
  Posted on September 2, 2008
  Summer is officially over and that mean it’s time for school. The Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) offer the following advice for all parents to help assimilate their kids back to school: First Day Jitters: Remind your child that he...
• Food Stamps Set To Increase
  Posted on August 26, 2008
  Beginning September 1, 2008, eligible Maine residents may see an increase in the amount of food stamps they receive due to higher home heating and other utility costs. Food stamps are distributed in the form of a rechargeable debit card...
• Motorcyclists Beware!
  Posted on August 22, 2008
  While fatalities involving motorists in cars and trucks, bicyclists, pedestrians, and even alcohol-related accidents dropped dramatically in 2007, highway deaths of motorcyclists soared for the tenth straight year, accounting for nearly one out of eight highway deaths. Experts expect this...
• Carotid Artery Device Recalled
  Posted on August 13, 2008
  The device used in patients to treat a blockage in the carotid artery has been recalled. The blockage of the artery is known as carotid artery disease. NexStent Monorail was manufactured by Boston Scientific between May 2007 to May 2008,...
• Vehicle Registration On The Rise
  Posted on August 13, 2008
  Beginning September 1, 2008, the cost of registering a vehicle in the state of Maine will increase by ten dollars. The cost of purchasing vanity plates and vehicle titles will also increase by ten dollars. Registration for passenger and commercial...
• Buckle Up For Safety! Becomes A Law
  Posted on August 6, 2008
  Prior to May 2007, people in Maine over the age of sixteen were not legally required to wear seat belts. Now everyone must wear one. A new Maine seat belt law states that all travelers in a vehicle must now...
• Calculate Your Social Security Payments
  Posted on July 25, 2008
  With the oldest of the baby boomers reaching the age of 62, more and more Mainers are now collecting Social Security. To find out how much Social Security you will receive in retirement, go to: www.socialsecurity.gov/estimator and calculate your estimated...
• Massachusetts Based Climbing Rope Recalled
  Posted on July 18, 2008
  Maxim Apogee and Maxim Pinnacle Dynamic climbing lines and ropes were recalled due to a fall hazard. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a recall of the lines and ropes on July 29, 2008, and advises consumers to stop...
• Apply Now For Home Heating Assistance
  Posted on July 13, 2008
  Maine residents of Androscoggin and Oxford counties can now apply for home heating assistance. The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program was created to help low-income homeowners and renters pay for heating costs in the upcoming 2008-2009 winter. To apply, Mainers...
• Better to Give
  Posted on July 2, 2008
  With five convenient office locations and a statewide practice, The Law Offices of Joe Bornstein provides Mainers from across the state with access to justice. But helping Mainers get the justice they deserve is just the tip of the iceberg...
• Fourth Annual Arrive Alive Winners Announced
  Posted on June 24, 2008
  The 4th annual Arrive Alive Creative Contest sponsored by The Law Offices of Joe Bornstein has come to a consummate close. The contest asks graduating seniors from local Maine high schools to think creatively and come up with a message...
• Don't Rock the Boat! - Maine Boating Safety
  Posted on June 24, 2008
  Although Maine has a low incidence of boating mishaps, a fatal boating accident on Long Lake last summer made us all stop in our wakes to take a second look at the rules and regulations that protect our water playgrounds....
• Homeowner Not Liable For Drunk Drivers' Accident
  Posted on June 18, 2008
  Is a homeowner liable for car accidents caused by drivers who have been drinking at his home? If the owner did not supply the alcohol and did not know about the alcohol consumption, then courts have found the answer to...
• Multi-Million Dollar Brain Injury Verdict Overturned
  Posted on June 18, 2008
  A sharply divided Maine Supreme Judicial Court recently overturned the nearly $3 million verdict a Cumberland County jury awarded last year to a young man with a brain injury. Tolliver v. Maine Department of Transportation, 2008 ME 83, (May 13,...
• On the Highways and Byways with Joe Bornstein
  Posted on June 4, 2008
  Perhaps you've seen us on the Maine Turnpike or the local roads of your hometown. With two custom shrink wrapped vehicles, The Law Offices of Joe Bornstein can be found traveling the great state of Maine, helping Mainers get the...
• Summer is Here - Everyone Into the Water!
  Posted on June 4, 2008
  The Law Offices of Joe Bornstein wants all of its friends and family to have a fun-filled summer in the pool, at the lake, or by the ocean. Still, we caution everyone to know the safety rules of swimming and...
• Bicycle Safety
  Posted on May 28, 2008
  Spring has officially sprung, and that means kids all across the state will be riding bikes again. And with the influx of new riders on the road, it is important for both bicyclists and drivers to pay attention and follow...
• Good News For Social Security Disability Claims
  Posted on May 28, 2008
  There is good news for Maine attorneys who practice in the area of Social Security Disability Insurance Law and their clients. Due to an increase in funding for the Social Security Administration (SSA), the wait time for claims to be...
• Top 10 Safest States For Children
  Posted on May 28, 2008
  iVillage.com has compiled a list of the top ten safest states to raise children. Our beloved State of Maine scored a favorable ranking of sixth, and was heralded for passing laws with the safety of teenage drivers in mind. The...