Over the last month, the state has been bombarded by winter weather, including snow, sleet, ice, and freezing rain. This can leave the sidewalk, steps, and driveway in front of a home dangerously slippery. For that reason, it is best to clear any snow or ice accumulation as early as possible in the day. After all, the longer the dangerous conditions are permitted to exist, the more likely it is that someone could be injured. Some municipalities even have ordinances requiring snow removal only hours after the snow stops falling.
When shoveling snow and ice, be sure to place it somewhere where it will not block roads, drains, and sidewalks. Use rock salt to melt any remaining snow and ice by sprinkling it generously over affected areas. If salt is not available, sprinkle ash, sand, or even cat litter for traction over icy areas instead. For elderly or disabled neighbors, consider offering to clear their properties of snow and ice. If an individual is elderly or disabled, or they simply do not have time to clear their own property of snow and ice, enlist some neighbors.
If an individual is a renter or in a homeowner’s association, be clear about what one’s lease or homeowner’s association policy says about their responsibilities. Many landlords leave snow removal from the streets to the local authorities but might take care of snow removal on sidewalks in front of homes. However, their responsibility, if any, may kick in only if there is a significant amount of snow; lighter flurries of snow that nevertheless produce icy conditions might be left to the individual. In such cases, or in cases where the balance of responsibility for clearing snow and ice falls on the individual, salt or other de-icing material will need to be available on hand, as well as a good snow shovel to clear a driveway, personal parking space, and sidewalk. Consult one’s lease or homeowner’s association policy for clarity on particular responsibilities.
Owners of brick-and-mortar businesses should also have a snow shovel handy. If a business does not have an adjacent parking lot that they are responsible for, it is best to keep the storefront clear of snow and ice. However, if a business has a parking lot to keep safe and accessible, consider hiring a snow removal service to help keep it clear. At a minimum, these services typically offer de-icing, plowing, shoveling, reporting, and seasonal inspections. Many snow removal services allow custom contracts based on the size of the area to be cleared and the frequency with which the business wants the snow removal performed. Shop around to find a contractor who can provide the services needed.
During dangerous weather conditions, victims can be injured due to no fault of their own. In these cases, contact a knowledgeable Delaware personal injury lawyer at Rhoades & Morrow today. For a free consultation, call (302) 427-9500 or fill out an online form to get started. Located in Wilmington, Bear, and Milford, Delaware, the firm serves clients throughout Delaware.
