Sidewalk Snow Removal

by Jeffrey J. Kroll

As the weather starts to get a bit sketchy, snow and ice will be in our forecast for the foreseeable future. In Chicago, many people rely on walking or public transportation as their primary way to get to work and around town. Without a wide, clear path through snow and ice, it is especially difficult for people with disabilities, seniors, and/or children to safely traverse our Chicago sidewalks.

According to the Municipal Code of Chicago (4-4-310 & 10-8-180), property owners and occupants are responsible for keeping sidewalks clear of snow and ice.  The City of Chicago requires a five-foot path to be cleared. This width should allow for safe access from the crosswalk to the sidewalk – especially for people in wheelchairs, using strollers, or an assistive device. Cleared sidewalks must be done by 10 a.m. if the snow falls overnight, or, 10:00 p.m. if the snow falls during the day. The personal injury attorneys at Kaveny + Kroll have seen the impact neglected or unsafe sidewalks can have on pedestrians. If you have been injured in a slip and fall incident, contact the injury attorneys at Kaveny + Kroll (312.761.5585) for free consultation.