Do you live in Michigan? If so, it is likely at some point in your life you awoke to a blanket of snow covering your sidewalks and driveway.
Most towns have laws and ordinances demanding snow removal from "city" owned sidewalks within a 24 hour period. If you live in certain Michigan towns or cities you might know someone who has been fined for not obeying these laws.
As an insurance agent I know how important it is to clear your sidewalks not only because of these ordinances but because of the liability exposure you face for not doing so.
Let me give you an example:
It is a few days after a snow storm and you have neglected to clear off your sidewalks. Luckily for you the township hasn't been enforcing the law so you have not received a fine.
However, that same day the local youth basketball team is going door-to-door fundraising for new jerseys. All of a sudden the boys get to your home and make their way through the snow still piled on your walkways. The team captain approaches your home and as he puts his right foot up to walk up your stairs he slips, falls, and breaks his arm. Your laziness or disregard to remove the snow, now might be looked at as negligence to this injury. At this point in time you have opened up yourself to a potential lawsuit.
Trust me, I hate shoveling snow as much as the next guy. Getting bundled up to brave the cold is not an idea of morning fun for me but it is vital in protecting yourself from a potential claim.
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