Winter can be a beautiful season, but it also brings challenges, including snow and ice accumulation on sidewalks and driveways. Property owners have a legal obligation to remove snow and ice from their premises to prevent slip and fall accidents. Failing to do so can result in serious injuries and legal liability. In this article, we will explore the consequences of failing to remove snow in front of your home and how it can result in lawsuits.
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Liability for Slip and Fall Accidents
If someone slips and falls on your property due to snow or ice accumulation, you may be liable for their injuries. Property owners have a legal duty to maintain their premises in a safe condition and take reasonable steps to prevent slip and fall accidents. This includes removing snow and ice from sidewalks and driveways within a reasonable time after a snowfall.
Negligence Claims
If someone is injured on your property due to snow and ice accumulation, they may call a slip and fall lawyer and file a negligence claim against you. To prove negligence, the injured person must show that you breached your duty to maintain your property in a safe condition, and that breach caused their injuries. If successful, they may recover compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Contributory Negligence
In some cases, the injured person may be partially at fault for their slip and fall accident. This is known as contributory negligence and can impact the amount of compensation they can recover. For example, if the injured person was wearing inappropriate footwear or was not paying attention to their surroundings, they may be found partially responsible for their injuries.
Insurance Coverage
Homeowners insurance typically covers slip and fall accidents that occur on your property, including those related to snow and ice accumulation. However, there may be limits on the amount of coverage, and some policies may not cover certain types of damages. It’s important to review your insurance policy and understand what is and isn’t covered.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
In addition to the legal consequences of failing to remove snow in front of your home, there may also be penalties imposed by your local government. Many municipalities have bylaws that require property owners to remove snow and ice from their sidewalks and driveways within a certain time frame. Failure to comply with these bylaws may result in fines or other penalties.
Failing to remove snow in front of your home can be a big mistake, both legally and financially. It can result in slip and fall accidents, lawsuits, and legal liability. As a homeowner, it’s important to take steps to maintain your property in a safe condition and to remove snow and ice promptly. This includes investing in appropriate snow removal equipment, such as shovels and snowblowers, and hiring professionals if necessary. By taking these steps, you can reduce the risk of accidents and protect yourself from legal liability.