Vermont Car Accident Lawyer

At Larson & Gallivan Law, our Vermont auto accident attorneys fight tirelessly to protect the rights and interests of victims and families. With the experience needed to take on the full range of motor vehicle accident claims, our firm is committed to holding large insurance companies accountable for paying claims. If you or someone close to you was hurt in a motor vehicle crash, we can help. Contact us today for a free consultation with a top-rated Vermont auto accident attorney.

The Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Vermont

Were you involved in a motor vehicle collision in Vermont? It is imperative that you know what to do to protect your well-being and put yourself in the best position to get justice. Here are five steps to take in the immediate aftermath of an automobile accident in Vermont:

Stop Your Care and Exchange Key Information: Immediately after a car accident in Vermont, it is essential to stop your vehicle at the scene. Exchange contact information, insurance details, and vehicle registration numbers with the other parties involved.

Contact Law Enforcement to Report the Crash: Always call the police to the scene of the accident to ensure an official report is filed. Contact the Vermont State Police or a local law enforcement agency.

See a Doctor Right Away for Any Physical Injuries: Even if injuries seem minor, it is important to visit a healthcare provider promptly as some symptoms might not appear right away. Without medical records, you cannot bring a successful car accident claim.

Thoroughly Document the Crash: Take photographs of the accident scene, including all vehicles involved, any visible damages, and road conditions. Also, collect names and contact information of witnesses. Write down your personal account of the crash.

Consult With a Vermont Car Accident Attorney: Insurance companies are looking out for their own bottom line, not what is best for your family. You should speak to a Vermont auto accident lawyer right away after a serious collision.

A Broad Overview of Car Accident Liability in Vermont

Vermont is a fault-based auto accident state. The party found at fault for a crash due to their negligence can be held liable for the resulting damages. Every accident should be carefully investigated. Negligence can take a wide array of different forms, including:

Speeding;
Running red lights;
Failure to yield;
Unsafe merges;
Distracted driving;
Drunk driving;
Drugged driving;
Truck company negligence;
Unsafe roadway design; and
Vehicle manufacturer defects.

Under Vermont law (Vt. Stat. Ann. Tit. 12, § 1036), a modified comparative fault standard applies. Each party to a crash is responsible for their share of the blame. You can still recover compensation even with a finding of partial fault—so long as your liability is 50 percent or less.

Recovering Financial Compensation for Automobile Accident Victims

Hurt in a motor vehicle crash in Vermont? You may have questions about how much you can expect to recover in financial compensation through a legal claim. The short answer is that injured victims have a right to pursue compensation for the full extent of their damages, including intangible losses. However, it is important to remember that these cases are defended by large and aggressive insurance companies. Insurers have a financial incentive to pay out less. The team at Larson & Gallivan Law can help. Our Vermont auto accident lawyers can help you seek compensation for:

Automotive repairs or vehicle replacement;
Ambulance costs and emergency room care;
Hospital bills and other health care expenses;
Loss of wages and loss of future earning power;
Pain and suffering & emotional anguish;
Disfigurement or disability; and
Wrongful death of a family member.

How the Vermont Car Crash Attorneys at Larson & Gallivan Law Can Help

A car crash is stressful, frustrating, and often confusing. You do not have to take on the big insurance companies alone. At Larson & Gallivan Law, we have the professional experience that injured victims can depend on when it matters most. You can hear what our clients have to say and contact us directly with any questions. Along with other things, our Vermont car crash attorneys will:

Hear your story and explain the next steps in the personal injury claims process;
Investigate the motor vehicle collision in Vermont—gathering evidence;
Take care of the insurance paperwork and any settlement negotiations; and
Develop a comprehensive strategy to help ensure you receive the best possible outcome.

Motor Vehicle Crash Claims in Vermont: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Long Do I Have to File a Car Crash Claim in Vermont?

A strict statute of limitations applies. Under Vermont law (Vt. Stat. Ann. Tit. 12 § 512(1)), you have three years to bring a personal injury claim, including a car accident injury claim. Filing after this deadline typically results in losing the right to seek compensation. Be proactive: Consult with a Vermont car accident attorney right away after a serious crash.

What Should I Look for in a Vermont Car Accident Injury Lawyer?

Knowledge, experience, and a proven record of success. When looking for an automobile accident lawyer in Vermont, you need an advocate who can actually deliver results. Choosing someone who will communicate with you transparently and who makes you feel comfortable is another key. Car accident victims deserve personalized legal representation.

Should I Give a Statement to an Insurance Adjuster After a Crash?

No. Take a moment to recover, gather your thoughts, and consult with an attorney. Indeed, you should not give a statement to an insurance adjuster after a crash without consulting your attorney. Insurance adjusters often seek to minimize the payout and your statements can be used against you. You can work through insurance companies through a Vermont auto accident attorney.

Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Vermont Car Accident Lawyer Today

At Larson & Gallivan Law, our Vermont motor vehicle accident attorneys are standing by, ready to protect your rights and your interests. If you or someone close to you was hurt in a crash, our team is on your side. Give us a call now or contact us online for a free case evaluation. From our Rutland office, we handle motor vehicle accident claims all across the State of Vermont.