Snowplow Car Accidents Attorneys in Burlington, VT 

Winter in Burlington, Vermont, can be beautiful, but it’s no secret—it’s tough out there. Snowplows are a lifeline when the snow piles up, keeping roads clear and helping life go on. The state of Vermont actually has some of the longest plow routes in New England. But when these massive machines collide with pedestrians, cars, or cyclists, the results can be devastating. If you’ve been in a snowplow accident, you know it’s not just about the physical pain. It’s the emotional toll, the unexpected medical bills, and the constant questions about what to do next. 

At Horn Wright, LLP, our car accident attorneys have spent years helping people just like you get back on their feet. We understand the chaos that follows an accident like this, and we’re here to take that stress off your shoulders. Our team knows the law, but more importantly, we know how much you’re going through—and we’re ready to help. 

What Counts as a Snowplow Accident in Burlington? 

Snowplows are vital for Burlington during those long winter months. You’ve probably seen them clearing main roads like Pearl Street or maneuvering around City Hall Park. They’re huge, heavy, and essential, but they’re not perfect. Operators face bad visibility, icy roads, and long shifts, and sometimes that combination leads to accidents. 

Why do these accidents happen? Sometimes it’s simple human error—a driver doesn’t see a pedestrian or misjudges a turn. Other times, mechanical issues, like faulty brakes or poorly maintained equipment, come into play. And let’s not forget how unpredictable winter roads can be. Accidents don’t just happen during blizzards; even a small patch of black ice can spell disaster. 

Snowplow accidents may seem rare, but they’re more common than most people think. The state of Vermont itself has a fleet of over 275 plow trucks, along with another 60 loaders, 8 graders, and another 100+ heavy duty trucks with plows to handle the snow. Across Vermont, stories of snowplow accidents serve as stark reminders of how dangerous snow removal can be. 

Injuries Specific to Vermont Snowplow Accidents 

Snowplows are enormous. Heavy-duty snow plows can weigh up to 3,000lbs. When they collide with cars, pedestrians, or cyclists, the injuries can be life changing. Here are some of the most common injuries we see after snowplow accidents—and why they matter: 

• Broken bones: It’s not just a “simple fracture.” A broken leg could mean months of physical therapy, lost wages, and missed time with your family. 
• Spinal injuries: These are some of the most serious. A spinal injury such as a disc bulge or disc protrusion could leave you unable to work—or worse, unable to walk. 
• Head trauma: Concussions and traumatic brain injuries aren’t just scary; they can change how you think, feel, and live. 
• Soft tissue injuries: Torn ligaments, deep bruises, or internal injuries may not be visible, but they can cause lasting pain and require expensive treatments. 

Each of these injuries can turn your world upside down. If you’re dealing with one, you’re probably feeling overwhelmed. But you don’t have to go through this alone. 

Who’s Liable in a Vermont Snowplow Car Accident? 

Here’s where things get tricky: figuring out who’s responsible. As a top law firm in Vermont, we’ve seen these same fact patterns time and again. After an accident, you’re probably asking, “Was this the operator’s fault? What about the city or a private company?” The truth is that it depends. Under 23 V.S.A. § 1126a, it's illegal to deposit snow onto a traveled way, shoulder or sidewalk of a state highway.

If a city-owned snowplow caused the accident, the municipality might be responsible. But here’s the catch—government entities often claim immunity unless there’s clear evidence of negligence. 

On the other hand, many businesses in Burlington hire private snow removal services. If their driver or equipment caused the accident, the company could be on the hook. Snowplow drivers have a tough job, but they still have to follow the rules. Distracted driving, speeding, or failing to watch for pedestrians could make them liable. 

What are the Rights of a Snowplow Accident Victims in Vermont? 

If you’ve been hurt in a snowplow accident, you have rights. Vermont law is clear: you can seek compensation for what you’ve lost. That includes: 

Medical bills: From ambulance rides to physical therapy, you shouldn’t have to bear these costs alone. 

Lost wages: Whether you missed a week of work or can’t return at all, you deserve compensation for the income you’ve lost. 

Pain and suffering: This isn’t just about the physical pain—it’s about the emotional toll, too. 

But there’s one thing to keep in mind: Vermont’s statute of limitations generally sets a three-year time limit for filing a claim for negligence. Don’t wait too long. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be. 

Steps to Take After a Snowplow Accident in Burlington 

If you’ve been in a snowplow accident, the aftermath can feel overwhelming. But taking these steps can make a big difference: 

Get medical attention immediately: Your health comes first. Even if you think you’re “fine,” see a doctor. Some injuries aren’t obvious right away. 

Document everything: Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any damage to your car or property. Review tips on how to take the best crash scene photos as possible. Write down what happened while it’s fresh in your mind. 

Report the accident: Call the police or local authorities and ask for a copy of their report. This can be crucial evidence later. 

Save all records: Keep track of medical bills, repair estimates, and any correspondence about the accident. 

Call an attorney: This is one of the most important steps. A lawyer can help protect your rights, handle the paperwork, and build a strong case. 

How Horn Wright, LLP, Helps Burlington Residents 

Burlington snowplow accidents are tough. They leave individuals hurt, fearful, and not knowing how to go forward. At Horn Wright, LLP, our personal injury attorneys know that snowplow accidents are more than "cases." They can be life-changing. We also understand the struggle you're under, and we're here to help. 

We'll dive into the details—looking into the accident, getting evidence, and figuring out who is responsible. And then, we will fight for you to get back what is owed to you, be it medical bill reimbursement, wage replacement, or pain compensation. 

We do not care solely about winning your case but, rather about you; we will deal with all the hard work so you can focus on healing; get in touch with us today to rebuild your life.