Vermont Slip-and-Fall Verdict: FedEx Driver Awarded Damages After Icy Walkway Injury
Justin Tiedemann v. Bernard and Catherine Wheeler
Jury found property owners 60% negligent for failing to maintain a safe walkway. Despite “open and obvious” defense, the court reaffirmed a duty to exercise reasonable care to discover and remedy dangerous hazards.
New Vermont Legislation S. 218 Shifts Liability Standards for Winter Claims
Senate Bill 218 Impact
Introduces a legal shield for owners adhering to “best management practices” for salting. Plaintiffs must now prove “gross negligence” rather than ordinary negligence to overcome new affirmative defenses.
Supreme Court Rules on PCB Toxic Tort and School Premises Liability
Amber Neddo v. Monsanto Company
Ruling confirms that toxic leaks from building components constitute a “release” under VT law. While limiting retroactive medical monitoring, it opens pathways for “duty to warn” claims in schools.
Prison Safety Standards and Inmate Care
A lawsuit against the VT Department of Corrections alleges failure to provide a “reasonably safe environment.” A diabetic inmate suffered a fatal seizure/fall from a top bunk onto unpadded concrete, highlighting a breach in the heightened duty of care for correctional facilities.
Proposal to Overhaul ‘Physical Impact’ Rule
Bill H. 543 Status
Bill H. 543 seeks to eliminate the requirement for physical strike in negligence claims. A PTSD diagnosis would satisfy the “actual injury” requirement, significantly expanding liability for hazardous property conditions.
Disclaimer: The premises liability summaries provided above are for informational purposes based on public news records available for Vermont (VT). The information provided is gathered from public news sources. It does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal guidance regarding an incident, please consult with a qualified professional.
