Winter weather brings beautiful snowfall, but it also comes with the responsibility of keeping sidewalks safe for everyone. In West Chester, Pennsylvania, property owners play a key role in ensuring clear and hazard-free walkways. By staying on top of local snow removal guidelines, you can help prevent accidents and keep your community safe—while also protecting yourself from potential legal concerns.
West Chester’s Snow Removal Rules
According to West Chester’s zoning ordinance, property owners must adhere to strict time limits when clearing snow and ice from their sidewalks:
- Snow Shoveling: You must clear your sidewalk within 24 hours of a storm. The cleared path must be at least three feet wide to allow pedestrians to walk safely.
- Salting and Sanding: Within six hours after a storm, you are required to apply salt, sand, or another de-icing material to prevent ice buildup and ensure safe passage.
- Refreezing Hazard: If melting snow refreezes on your sidewalk (not due to new precipitation), you have only two hours to treat it with salt or sand to reduce the risk of slip and fall accidents.
Why This Matters
Failing to follow these rules can lead to serious injuries from slips and falls, which could make you liable for damages in a premises liability lawsuit. If someone suffers an injury on an icy or unshoveled sidewalk, you could be held responsible for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Property owners in Pennsylvania have a legal duty of care to keep their premises reasonably safe. If you don’t shovel snow, apply salt, or address refreezing issues, you could face legal action for negligence in a personal injury claim.
Protect Yourself and Others
To reduce liability risks and help keep the community safe, follow these steps:
Monitor weather conditions—especially after a storm when melting and refreezing can create new hazards.
Act quickly—don’t wait until the deadline to clear sidewalks, remove snow, and apply salt or sand.
Use the right materials—rock salt, sand, or ice melt can prevent dangerous conditions and reduce slip and fall injuries.
Check your property regularly—if refreezing occurs, make sure to reapply de-icing materials within two hours.
By following these regulations, you not only help prevent pedestrian injuries but also shield yourself from potential legal claims. Stay proactive, and you’ll contribute to a safer West Chester community this winter.
Legal Guidance from Personal Injury Lawyer Tim Rayne
If you or someone you know has been injured due to an unsafe sidewalk or a slip and fall accident, personal injury attorney Tim Rayne can help. Tim has years of experience handling premises liability cases, ensuring that injury victims receive fair compensation for their medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost wages.
Contact Tim Rayne at: 610-840-0124 or [email protected]. Visit www.timraynelaw.com to learn more.
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