Traffic Safety Laws in Vermont
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.
Electronic Device and Texting
Cell phone restrictions:
- All drivers under 18 years old are banned from using a portable electronic device.
Texting restrictions:
- All drivers, regardless of age or license status, are banned from texting while behind the wheel.
Child Car Seat Laws
- All kids younger than 1 year old and all kids who weigh less than 20 lbs. must ride in a rear-facing, federally-approved child safety seat.
- All kids who weigh over 20 lbs and is 1 through 7 years old they must ride in either a child safety seat or a booster seat.
- Kids between 8 to 17 years old must ride in a child passenger restraining system, or use a seat belt.
Before ordering a child car seat, be sure to read our articles on 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:
- 1st offense―$25
- 2nd offense―$50
- 3rd 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.