Who’s Responsible for Shoveling Snow Off Of Sidewalks?

Winter weather can make sidewalks treacherous. And when snow and ice aren’t properly cleared, a simple walk can result in a painful slip-and-fall injury. One of the most common questions we hear is, “Who is actually responsible for shoveling sidewalks, the homeowner or the municipality?” The answer often depends on local laws and the specific circumstances of the accident.

In many Pennsylvania communities, property owners are required by law to clear snow and ice from sidewalks adjacent to their business or home within a reasonable time after a storm ends. If they don’t, and a slip and fall accident occurs, the property owner may be held liable for damages like pain and suffering and medical expenses. As a property owner, you should protect yourself from out-of-pocket expenses. Ensure that you have personal liability coverage included in your homeowners’ insurance policy.

Municipal liability is a bit more complex. Cities and towns are generally responsible for removing snow and ice from public sidewalks, but governmental immunity laws often shield them from lawsuits.  If the municipality had prior notice of dangerous conditions and failed to take reasonable action to correct them, it may be at fault. Additionally, responsibility may shift depending on whether the sidewalk is considered part of a public right-of-way or directly tied to private property. In the latter instance, the private property owner is primarily liable, not the government. 

At Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo, we understand how frustrating these distinctions can be for injury victims. Determining who is responsible requires a careful review of local ordinances, maintenance records, weather conditions, and the duration of the hazard before the accident. These details can make the difference between a valid claim and a denied one.

If you’ve been injured in a slip-and-fall accident on an icy sidewalk, don’t assume you know who’s at fault. Our experienced attorneys can help identify who’s responsible and get you the compensation you deserve. Let Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo guide you through the process with the knowledge, experience, and advocacy you can trust.