Negligence in Vermont
State-specific overview · Tort Law
Vermont applies pure comparative negligence, allowing recovery regardless of the plaintiff's degree of fault.
How Vermont treats Negligence
Vermont negligence law requires proof of duty, breach, causation, and damages. Vermont uses pure comparative negligence, permitting plaintiffs to recover even if they are primarily responsible for the injury, with damages reduced by their percentage of fault. The statute of limitations for negligence claims is three years from the date of injury.
The general definition of Negligence
Failure to exercise reasonable care that results in harm to another person.
Negligence is a legal concept in civil law (not criminal) that holds people responsible for careless behavior. To prove negligence, you must show four things: the defendant had a duty to be careful, they breached that duty, their breach caused your injury, and you suffered actual damages. Negligence doesn't require intent to harm—it's about failing to act as a reasonably careful person would in similar circumstances. Victims of negligence can sue for compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Read the full Negligence entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Vermont.