{"id":376809,"date":"2017-10-30T14:41:04","date_gmt":"2017-10-30T19:41:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/state\/vermont-law\/vermont-car-accident-report-basics.html"},"modified":"2024-05-23T15:01:20","modified_gmt":"2024-05-23T20:01:20","slug":"vermont-car-accident-report-basics","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/state\/vermont-law\/vermont-car-accident-report-basics.html","title":{"rendered":"Vermont Car Accident Report Basics"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\n \n
\n

Vermont Car Accident Report Basics<\/h1>\n
\n
\n By Kit Yona, M.A.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Katrina Wilson, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last reviewed\n
\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
\n

This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
\n

The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n

Given Vermont’s small population and low population density, you might think auto accidents would be a rarity in the Green Mountain State. But that’s not the case\u2014Vermont had the highest percentage of crash deaths<\/a> on rural roads in 2021. Car accidents are a frequent and unfortunate occurrence in our lives.<\/p>\r\n

Most people know you can’t simply drive off after a car accident<\/a>, even if you think it wasn’t your fault. But many Vermont residents may not know what state law requires of them at the scene of the crash<\/a> and in the days that follow. It’s important to know and understand your legal obligations.<\/p>\r\n

This article will get you up to speed on crucial Vermont automotive laws. We’ll discuss what and what not to do at an accident scene. Special attention will be given to accident reports, police reports, and what you’ll need to file insurance claims. We’ll discuss personal injury claims, law enforcement officers, and dealing with car insurance companies.<\/p>\r\n

Let’s learn about everything there is to know about car accident reports in Vermont.<\/p>\r\n

Vermont Car Accident Law Overview<\/b><\/h2>\r\n

Vermont’s accident laws differ in many ways from those of other states. Understanding the basics can be a big help.<\/p>\r\n

Automotive Accident Law in Vermont<\/b><\/h3>\r\n

Some of Vermont’s laws are common sense. You need a valid driver’s license to drive, your vehicle must be registered, and you must have at least the minimum legal amount of liability insurance. Other laws are a little more unique.<\/p>\r\n

You must stop at the scene of an accident you’re involved in. Failure to do so can result in fines and jail time<\/a>. While there\u2019s no requirement to call the police and have them come to the scene, doing so is a good idea.<\/p>\r\n

If there is an injury or damage totaling over $3,000, all drivers are required to file an accident report with the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within 72 hours. The form is available on the DMV website<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n

If your accident involved or was administered to by the Vermont State Police, you can request the police report from their website<\/a>. The fee is $20.<\/p>\r\n

Mandatory Liability Auto Insurance in Vermont<\/b><\/h3>\r\n

Drivers in Vermont must carry liability insurance on all vehicles. While higher amounts can be chosen if desired, the mandatory minimums are as follows:<\/p>\r\n