BRIEF: Woman sues public transportation group

A woman who tripped on a Green Mountain Community Network bus is now suing the public transportation group.

Kathleen Rice, of Whitehall, N.Y., filed a suit in Bennington Superior Court in August seeking damages from GMCN because she tripped on a device used to secure wheelchairs. Rice's suit claims she fell and sustained orthopedic injuries "permanent in nature." The fall and subsequent injuries have caused Rice to incur medical bills and other expenses.

Rice's suit asks for judgment against GMCN, but doesn't specify an amount.

GMCN Executive Director Donna Baker said the suit is being handled by the Network's insurance company and could not offer any further comments.

The GMCN is a private, not-for-profit organization founded in 2007 to manage the Green Mountain Express transportation fleet. GMCN also sponsors the Green Mountain Retired and Senior Volunteer Program and Volunteer Center serving Southern Vermont.

The organization is funded by the state's transportation budget, the Federal Transit Administration, Medicaid and the Corporation on National and Community Service. The Green Mountain Express is the only public bus service for area residents that offers fixed bus routes.