Our winters in Newfoundland and Labrador mean that, unfortunately, people fall – most often without anyone except Old Man Winter to blame. Some obligation, however, does fall upon homeowners to ensure that those who come onto their properties are reasonably safe. Although it is rare, it is possible for a homeowner to be sued should negligence in winter property maintenance lead to a slip and fall incident.
Few of us would want to be responsible for a fall, and the impact on personal life that can follow it. A bit of preventative measure can protect you and those who visit – meter readers, postal carriers, newspaper carriers, friends and relatives. A little property care can protect the people you care about.
If you are aware of a problem, see to it:
- Remove snow and ice from walkways, driveways and steps within a reasonable amount of time.
- Guard against black ice and other high-risk conditions. Sand or salt your walkway/driveway/steps before and after the freeze to keep black ice from forming.
Inspect your property regularly and, although it is important to use salt and sand, make sure you have enough insurance!
To read more about liability coverage, go to Home Insurance FAQ.