Households hit with legal warning for clearing snow off driveways

UK homes woke up to a covering of snow this week, with areas across Nottinghamshire seeing a lot of the white stuff. The Met Office issued alerts for snow and ice across Yorkshire, the Midlands, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, warning that power cuts may happen, rural communities could become cut off, and travel disruption is probable.

As more snow is possible, UK households clearing their driveways of snow have been warned to do so correctly to avoid potential legal action, according to the Express.

Interestingly, a leading solicitor advises that poorly clearing your driveway of snow can put you at greater legal risk than not clearing it at all. While there is no law stopping you from clearing snow from your driveway, it is vital to ensure you don't make the pathway more dangerous than before.

The Department of Transport has provided new guidance for residents on dealing with snow and ice, stating: "You can clear snow and ice from pavements yourself. It's unlikely that you'll be sued or held responsible if someone is injured on a path or pavement if you've cleared it carefully.", reports Yorkshire Live.

However, legal experts warn that improper clearing could lead to liability issues. Hugh Rowland from Gotelee Solicitors LLP highlighted the risks during a BBC Radio interview, saying: "People are not under a duty to clear public paths outside their home or shop, and the truth is that if they do chose to clear a public path, and they don't do it well, and someone hurts themselves, then they could potentially be liable if the injured person chooses to sue them."

He further explained the obligations for private landholders: "When it comes to private land that you occupy, you are under a duty to take reasonable steps to ensure that your visitors are safe. So do you clear the snow or do you leave it for fear that you might make a worse icy hazard? " He also advised caution: "If you do clear it, then you have got to make sure that you do it well and that you maintain it. Because, if you make it more dangerous than it was before then you will be creating a hazard and you may be liable if someone hurts themselves as a result."

The Department of Transport has provided new guidance for residents on dealing with snow and ice, stating: "You can clear snow and ice from pavements yourself. It's unlikely that you'll be sued or held responsible if someone is injured on a path or pavement if you've cleared it carefully."

However, legal experts warn that improper clearing could lead to liability issues. Hugh Rowland of Gotelee Solicitors LLP, speaking on BBC Radio, highlighted the risks involved in clearing public pathways.

He said: "People are not under a duty to clear public paths outside their home or shop, and the truth is that if they do chose to clear a public path, and they don't do it well, and someone hurts themselves, then they could potentially be liable if the injured person chooses to sue them."

Discussing private landholders' responsibilities, he added: "When it comes to private land that you occupy, you are under a duty to take reasonable steps to ensure that your visitors are safe. So do you clear the snow or do you leave it for fear that you might make a worse icy hazard? " He also advised caution, saying: "If you do clear it, then you have got to make sure that you do it well and that you maintain it. Because, if you make it more dangerous than it was before then you will be creating a hazard and you may be liable if someone hurts themselves as a result."

For those brave enough to tackle the cold and clear the snow, here's a helpful guide: "Overall, people should not be discouraged from clearing snow and assisting others. However, they should ensure they do it correctly to avoid increasing the risk of injury to others and liability for themselves."

"Start early when the snow is fresh and more manageable - you'll thank yourself for it."

"Absolutely avoid using water - it's a clear path to creating treacherous black ice. Go for salt to not only clear but also prevent a slippery comeback. No salt? " "Ash and sand are your friends for that necessary grip. And remember, steps and slopes need extra care and a heavier sprinkle of whatever grit you're using; make them safe to avoid anyone taking an unintended slide."