Households across Birmingham are being issued a stark legal warning as they brace for heavy snowfall this Friday, January 9. The urgent advice comes ahead of Storm Goretti, which is forecast to dump significant snow across the region, potentially cutting off rural communities.
Storm Goretti's Snowfall Forecast and Legal Duty
The Met Office has upgraded its warning, stating that rain associated with Storm Goretti will turn to "heavy snow" across the West Midlands. The forecaster predicts accumulations of 10 to 15cm widely within the warning area, with the potential for up to 30cm on higher ground in Wales and the Peak District.
While there is no legal obligation to clear public pavements, the situation is very different for private property. Hugh Rowland of Gotelee Solicitors LLP explained the critical distinction in a BBC radio interview. "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," he stated.
The Clear Legal Risk of Doing It Wrong
The legal expert highlighted a common catch-22 for homeowners. If you choose to clear snow from a public path and do an inadequate job, you could be held liable if someone subsequently injures themselves. The same principle applies to your own driveway or private paths.
"If you do clear it, then you have got to make sure that you do it well and that you maintain it," Rowland cautioned. "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."
Despite this, the overarching message is not to be discouraged. Rowland emphasised: "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."
Practical Steps for Safe Snow Clearance
The Met Office provides clear guidance for safe snow shovelling. Their key tips include:
- Take care where you put the snow so it doesn't block paths or drains.
- Start by clearing a path down the middle of the area to create a safe walking surface.
- Then shovel the snow from the centre out to the sides.
They also urge community spirit, suggesting people check on vulnerable neighbours. "If your neighbour will have difficulty getting in and out of their home, offer to clear snow and ice around their property as well," the advice states. For those concerned about elderly or disabled residents, contacting relatives or the local council is recommended.
Residents are reminded that their local authority is responsible for clearing public highways and pavements. Information about specific winter services can be found on individual council websites.
