Luzerne County Snow and Ice Liability: What Property Owners Must Do to Keep You Safe

Parts of Pennsylvania have seen significant snowfall lately. While many people welcome a white Christmas, winter weather brings added responsibility for property owners. Under Pennsylvania law, property owners must keep their premises clear and reasonably safe, including removing snow and ice to prevent dangerous slip and fall accidents.

So—what exactly is a property owner's responsibility when it comes to clearing snow?

Premises Liability Laws in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania's premises liability laws require property owners to maintain their property in a condition that does not pose an unreasonable risk to visitors. This means:

• Identifying hazardous conditions

• Taking reasonable steps to fix or warn about them

• Preventing foreseeable injuries

If a property owner fails to take these steps and someone is hurt, the owner may be considered negligent and held liable for resulting medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

The Burden of Proof in Slip and Fall Claims

For an injured person to win a premises liability case, they must prove:

1. The property owner was negligent; and

2. That negligence caused the injury.

Proving negligence can be challenging—especially with snow and ice cases. The mere presence of a slippery surface is not enough. The injured person must show:

• The owner knew about the dangerous condition; or

• The owner should have known about it through reasonable inspection.

This “notice” requirement is one of the biggest hurdles in winter slip and fall cases.

The Duty to Clear Snow and Ice in Luzerne County

Property owners have a legal duty to remove snow and ice within a reasonable amount of time after the snowfall ends. Although laws can vary by municipality, the general expectation is:

• Snow and ice should be cleared within 24 hours after the precipitation stops.

Pennsylvania courts recognize that it is unreasonable to expect a property owner to keep walkways completely clear while snow is actively falling. This is known as the “ongoing storm doctrine.” Once the storm stops, however, the owner must take steps to clear the property and prevent dangerous conditions.

Failing to do so can result in liability if someone slips, falls, and suffers injuries.

Injured in a Snow or Ice Slip and Fall in Luzerne County? Contact Sklarosky Law

If you were hurt in a slip and fall caused by snow or ice in Wilkes-Barre, Plains Township, or anywhere in Luzerne County, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. These cases require quick action and a lawyer who understands Pennsylvania's snow-and-ice laws and the deadlines involved.

Call Sklarosky Law today at (570) 283-1200 or use our online contact form to schedule a free consultation.
Let us protect your rights and hold negligent property owners accountable.