With the recent snow storm that hit the Northeast, pummeling Connecticut with the most snow it’s seen for a century, there has been an unsurprising rise in snow and ice-related injuries. Doctors at Hartford Hospital noted that they see a number of injuries each winter due to muscle and back strain from shoveling, broken bones from slick walkways and the occasional injury from falling off the roof while clearing snow. But this year, emergency room doctors said they’ve never seen such huge numbers of people as they did immediately after the massive snowstorm a few weeks ago.
Over two dozen people have been treated for falling off roofs and ladders while trying to clear snow. Others have broken arms, ankles and legs from slipping on ice, been hurt by a snowblower or suffered heart attacks while shoveling. While injuries vary, many wonder how their medical bills will be covered. For some, their own health or homeowners insurance will cover their injuries, but others, when injured in a public place, wonder who is responsible for keeping the walkway clear.
Connecticut courts have found that “in the absence of unusual circumstances” a property owner has the duty to remove dangerous snow and ice, but can wait until after the storm ends.
Some examples of “unusual circumstances” include:
- Availability of other entrances or exits
- A change in the weather
- Cause of slippery conditions was a pre-existing accumulation of snow and ice
All property owners, including homeowners who regularly have postal or newspaper delivery, commercial and residential landlords, and shopkeepers, should take care to properly clear ice and snow build-up following a snowstorm.
Resources: For Easterners, this winter hurts more than usual; Don’t Fall for Snow and Ice