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The Vermont Statutes Online



Title

05

:
Aeronautics and Surface Transportation Generally






Chapter

013

:
OPERATION OF AIRCRAFT






Subchapter

003
:
ACCIDENTS AND LIABILITY FOR INJURY










 

§

479. Liability of owner of aircraft for injuries

The owner of an

aircraft which is operated over the lands or waters of this state is liable for

injuries to persons or property on the land or water beneath, caused by the

ascent, descent, or flight of the aircraft or the dropping or falling of an

object from an aircraft, unless the injury is caused in whole or in part by the

negligence of the person injured or of the owner or bailee of the property

injured. If the aircraft is leased at the time of the injury to person or

property, both owner and lessee shall be liable, and they may be sued jointly,

or either or both of them may be sued separately. However, the owner or lessee

shall not be responsible when the aircraft causing injury or damage is taken without

the knowledge or permission of the owner or lessee. (Added 1985, No. 222 (Adj.

Sess.), § 2.)