Safety Laws

Helmet Laws

Motorcycles

Helmets are required for all riders.

Bicycles

Helmets are not required, regardless of age. Needless to say, wearing one greatly reduces the risk of injury, especially in children.

Headlights

Vehicles

• Headlights must be turned on a half hour after sunset until a half hour before sunrise.

• Your headlights must allow you to see 150 feet ahead of you.

Bicycles

You must have a white headlight visible from 500 feet, and a red rear reflector.

Motorcycles

Modulating headlights are permitted for daytime use.

Cell Phones

As of January 2008, Vermont does not ban the use of cell phones while driving. Use common sense―no texting or dialing while driving, and invest in a wireless headset. Even better, wait until your car's not moving to talk.

Child Safety Seats

• All kids under the age of one and all kids who weigh less than 20 pounds must ride in a rear-facing, federally-approved child safety seat.

• All kids who weigh over 20 pounds and fall in between the ages of one and eight must ride in either a booster or a child safety seat.

• Kids between the ages of eight and 15 must ride in a child passenger restraining system, or use a seat belt.

For more information, read How to Buy a Child Safety Seat and
How to Install a Child Safety Seat.

Penalties

If you're caught with inappropriate child safety seating:

• First offense―$25

• Second offense―$50

• Third Offense―$100

Reporting Drunk or Dangerous Drivers

To report a drunk or a dangerous driver, call either 911 or your local police department. Be sure to provide the vehicle's license plate number, make and model, location and travel direction.

Unattended Child in Vehicle

Call 911 if you sense that an unattended child left inside a vehicle is in danger. Remain at the vehicle until authorities arrive.

Unattended Pet in a Vehicle

Call either the local police or animal control unit if you suspect an unattended pet left inside a vehicle is in danger due to excessive heat or cold.