Bus Crashes in Vermont
Vermont's buses include municipal and regional transit (such as Green Mountain Transit), school buses, intercity coaches, and tour and charter buses serving the state's ski areas and tourist destinations. Because buses are large, carry many passengers, and often lack seat belts, a crash can injure many people at once and cause serious harm even at moderate speeds.
Liability in a bus case may rest with the bus driver, the transit agency or private company that operates the bus, a maintenance contractor, or another motorist. Identifying every responsible party — and every applicable insurance policy — is essential.
The Government-Claim Complication
When the bus is operated by a public entity such as a municipal transit agency or a school district, your claim may fall under the Vermont Tort Claims Act, which imposes special notice requirements and shorter deadlines than ordinary injury claims. Missing a notice deadline can bar an otherwise valid claim, so it is critical to act quickly and get advice about which rules apply.
Tour and charter bus crashes can involve out-of-state operators and federal motor-carrier regulations, adding further complexity that experienced counsel can navigate.
Compensation After a Bus Accident
Injured victims may recover medical costs, lost income, and damages for pain and suffering. Because of the potential government-claim deadlines, a prompt free review is the safest way to protect your rights after a Vermont bus accident.
Injured in Vermont? Get a free, confidential case review today. There's no obligation, and you pay no fee unless you win. Call 973-566-5599.
Frequently Asked Questions
Nothing upfront. Our network attorneys work on contingency, so you pay no fee unless they recover compensation for you. The case review is always free.
Generally three years from the date of injury under 12 V.S.A. § 512. Claims involving a government entity under the Vermont Tort Claims Act can have shorter notice deadlines, so it is important to act quickly.
Vermont's modified comparative negligence rule (12 V.S.A. § 1036) lets you recover as long as you were not more than 50% at fault. Your compensation is reduced by your share of fault.
This page is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, consult a licensed Vermont attorney.