Here in Scotland, as with most of the UK, we have been hit with some pretty heavy, persistent, snow fall.
The gritters are of course trying to do their job, but it seems to be a struggle to keep the main routes open, let alone the side roads. Homes and businesses are doing their best, but we have already had a couple of calls from people wondering how their business insurance will react if someone falls. the question is, what happens if someone blames them for not clearing pathways, or for clearing pathways and making them icy.
The answer is, if you have valid cover in place, you really should not worry. There was a representative on the radio last week from the local government association. He was effectively saying that it is bit of an urban myth that you are not allowed the clear the path in front of your house. He was pleading with the people of the UK to get out there and do what they can in the interest of community spirit.
Businesses though, are a slightly different kettle of fish. You need to make sure that you have adequate public liability insurance in place, particularly if you have car parks. Whilst you have nothing to worry about, this does not stop the spurious claims being submitted. Your liability insurance should help fend off even the most laughable of claims. Do not, whatever you do ignore any claim or try and deal with it yourself. Always, always speak to your business insurance broker for any advice, particularly if you receive a solicitors letter. If someone does fall, offer to help them if required and if possible, take photographs of the area where they alleged they fell.
If they do decide to go to a no win no fee solicitor, and you receive a letter, get this to your insurance broker as soon as possible and let them notify your insurers. You can only really be held liable if it can be proven you have been negligent. If you are open for trade, you need to make it as safe as possible for customers to visit your premises. If this involves clearing a path and putting some salt or grit down, then you can do so. If your car park is not safe then put signs up saying the car park is not to be used. You cannot really do much more than that.