New Jersey residents have endured a long winter. According to the calendar, the official start of spring is this week. However, that doesn’t mean we’re completely free of ice and snow. This winter has been particularly difficult because of the constant barrage of storms and snow piling up, seemingly without end.
Of course, this kind of weather can lead to slippery conditions on area sidewalks. It’s the responsibility of property owners to make sure that their walkways are free of ice and snow; if someone were to be injured in a slip-and-fall accident because of the negligence of a homeowner or business owner, that person could be targeted for a personal injury lawsuit.
One municipal government in New Jersey is trying to encourage residents to keep sidewalks clear by approving an ordinance that would fine people who don’t shovel their walkways once they’ve been notified of a violation. The township council in Toms River approved fines of $100 for a first offense and $200 for a second offense; however, the total amount of fines can’t be higher than $1,000. Council members wanted to do what they could to protect local pedestrians, particularly kids who use the township’s sidewalks to walk to school every day.
Ice and snow aren’t the only hazards that can be found on New Jersey sidewalks, of course. Uneven pavement or damage that has been left unrepaired could also lead to people tripping and hurting themselves. Victims of such accidents often work with personal injury attorneys if they are interested in seeking compensation for their injuries.
Source: Asbury Park Press, “Toms River officials to residents: Shovel your sidewalks,” Erik Larsen, Feb. 26, 2014