Who is responsible for gritting pavements

Councils have a legal obligation to clear roads and keep traffic moving, but residents and business owners are often left with perilous pavements. Are you safer from a legal perspective not clearing, vs clearing snow and then someone slips? Here is the state of play for dealing with both public paths and payments close to a premise and for access roads, carparks and pathways within your own premises and grounds.

Be aware that some employers now need to think beyond the traditional perimeter and be more vigilant to protect staff against slips on ice when travelling to and from clients.

There are arguments stating if you leave the pavement in a slippery condition you cannot be sued; or if you grit a public pavement somebody could assume it is safe but still fall.

It is unlikely that you would be sued or held responsible if someone is injured on a path or pavement provided you have acted carefully and responsibly when treating the area. This would most probably only become an issue if your actions had made the situation worse and not better. For example, were you to use hot water to remove snow or ice, this could refreeze and create an ice hazard.

It is highly improbable that you would make any situation worse by using salt. If you are concerned about making a situation worse, please consider the following points:. Find out where your nearest grit in is at find your nearest grit bin and your nearest community salt bin.

You can also apply for a free one-tonne salt bags. Please note, this form is anonymous, we can't reply directly to your feedback. If you would like to report an issue, make a complaint or suggestion, please Contact Us. Facebook social link Twitter social link. Gritting pavements and cycle paths. Are councils responsible for icy paths? Get a Free Call Back. Legal Obligation While councils have a legal obligation to ensure all pavements and paths are safe to walk on, this does not mean they are responsible for injuries caused by ice and snow.

Gritted Paths While the council rarely grits pathways and paths, homeowners and businesses often do. Personal Injury If you do slip on ice or snow and are unsure whether or not you can make a claim, it is best to speak to a personal injury solicitor, who may advise you if you have a case.