Vermont · Handbook chapter 9 · 3 min read

What to do after a crash in Vermont and when to report it, annual inspection, tire tread and vehicle equipment rules, safety belts and child restraint law.

Why this chapter matters

Knowing what to do after a crash, and keeping your vehicle and passengers safe, is part of every driver's legal duty. The reporting threshold and child seat ages are common test questions.

Common causes of crashes

Driving too fast for conditions, inattention, following too closely, crossing the center line, failing to yield, drinking or using drugs, unsafe passing, and not checking mirrors and blind spots.

After a crash

1. Stop and give any assistance that is reasonably needed.
2. If possible, move the vehicles out of the travel lanes onto the shoulder.
3. If anyone is hurt, call 911. Leave the injured person where they are and keep them warm and calm.
4. Show your license, registration and insurance to the police, and your license to anyone injured or whose property was damaged.
5. If you hit an unattended vehicle and cannot find the owner, leave your name, address and phone number in or on it.
6. If anyone is injured or damage is over $3,000, send a written report to DMV within 72 hours.

Write down where and when it happened, the damage, the injuries, and the other driver's name, address, license and registration, plus witnesses. A crash in another state is reported in that state.

Inspection and equipment

• Your vehicle must be inspected once a year, and within 15 days of registration unless it already has a valid Vermont sticker.
• Tires need at least 2/32 inch of tread. In the penny test, if you can see all of the head, the tires are too worn.
• Under- and overinflated tires both reduce traction. Have steering and the front end checked twice a year.
• The rear plate must be lit so it can be read from at least 50 feet.
• Defrosters must work, and windows must be clear of ice, snow and moisture. Nothing may hang from the rearview mirror or sun visors.
• A leaking exhaust can let in carbon monoxide, which you cannot smell. Drowsiness or nausea can be a warning.
• If the pedal sinks further than usual before the brakes work, get the brake fluid checked right away.

Safety belts

The law requires every occupant to wear a safety belt or be in an approved child restraint. Wear the lap belt snugly across the hips, not the stomach, and the shoulder belt across the center of the chest. Never tuck it under your arm or behind your back.

Child restraints (23 V.S.A. 1258)