Cincinnati's Icy Sidewalks Dangers

Welcome to Winter in Cincinnati! The Cincinanti Icy Sidewalk Liability is an important issue to discuss and keep in mind. What does the risk of someone who slips and becomes injured on your icy sidewalk mean to homeowners? Our winters bring plenty of snow and icy sidewalks dangers. Do we clean off our driveways and sidewalks or not?

MAKING SENSE OF THE CINCINNATI ICY SIDEWALK LIABILITY

Cincinnati area homeowners are not liable if they take no action to clear their sidewalks or driveways. The reasoning behind this is a snow and ice hazard is open and obvious for all to see. Where things gets a little tricky is with the other component of the law. It states that a duty assumed cannot be undertaken without incurring liability. You are liable if you clear off your sidewalk then someone later slips and hurts themselves.

The Icy Sidewalk Liability Laws applies regardless of whether you only miss a tiny patch of ice – or quit trying to clear the area shortly after beginning. Taking any steps that prevent the slippery ice danger from being open and obvious can shift liability to your shoulders.

PERSONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE

Does this reading of the icy sidewalk liability law mean that you should leave your shovel in the garage all winter? Not at all. Cincinnati has municipal ordinances which require you to clean snow and ice from your sidewalks (or face a fine). Cleaning off snow and ice is something you should continue to do.

The risk of someone slipping on your sidewalk and hurting themselves won’t go away. Accidents do happen. The Cincinnati icy sidewalk ordinances can make liability for this type of incident somewhat confusing. It is better to be proactive about protecting yourself instead of leaving things up to chance.

Personal Liability Insurance protects homeowners from Icy Sidewalk Liability. 

This winter is a great time to add personal liability coverage to your homeowners policy. Most homeowners and rental policies can include $100,000 of liability coverage for a very minimal cost. Even increasing to $300,000 or $500,000 is a very reasonable expense. If you’re already at $500,000, you can get add additional liability coverage with an umbrella policy. Liability insurance coverage can help with everything from medical bills to lost wages. Then in the event that someone gets hurt by slipping on ice or any other accident that occurs on your property.

Adding Personal Liability Insurance to your homeowners policy gives peace of mind. We make it easy to compare options. Get a free insurance quote online. Call Cincinnatus Insurance at 513-587-3553 to discuss your homeowners insurance needs.