Top 5 Tips to Weather a Late Winter Storm
Winter is not quite over, as folks in parts of the Midwest and East Coast are digging out from a late winter storm.
Even with spring on the horizon, snow, sleet, and ice can still create hazardous conditions. As a reminder, here are five tips to survive this latest winter storm:
- Be a defensive winter driver. Winter poses obvious hazards to driving. Some tips for safe driving include leaving extra space between you and other drivers, slowing down, pumping the brakes, replacing windshield wipers, getting new tires, and putting on snow chains.
- Beware slip and fall injuries. If it's wet or icy outside, this may create slick spots inside your home or business. As a result, you may need to take extra care to clear up wet spots or to warn invitees or customers of possible slip and fall dangers.
- Snow shoveling laws are still in effect. If you don't shovel that icy sidewalk in front of your home or business, you could be sued for premises liability. Laws and regulations for shoveling the ice off your sidewalk vary greatly among jurisdictions. Make sure you know your local laws and comply.
- Landlords may be liable for power outages. Snowstorms may stretch power grids to the limit, or simply knock out power completely. Landlords may be responsible for maintaining the power supply at their building and exercising reasonable care in the upkeep of their buildings. However, if a regional blackout affects all residents equally, landlords may not be liable for any resulting injuries.
- Small business concerns. Depending on where you live, you may want to look into your insurance coverage for things like flooding, snow, or hail damage and possibly purchase additional coverage. You should also check your lease regarding who is responsible for making repairs from winter storm damage. Most importantly, make sure your business is safe for both customers and employees.
Related Resources:
- Sue the Government Over Potholes, Salt Damage? (FindLaw's Injured)
- Icy Roads: At Fault Even When Driving Speed Limit? (FindLaw’s Injured)
- Winter Driving Safety Tips (FindLaw’s Common Law)