A natural accumulation of snow and ice depends solely on environmental factors. In other words, accumulations are considered natural when there is no human interference. For example, snow collecting on top of sidewalks and roads is considered a natural accumulation. Likewise, snow and ice spreading under bridges or coverings is considered natural if it was blown there by the wind.
An unnatural accumulation of snow and ice is sometimes difficult to define. This is because what is considered unnatural will differ depending on the presence or absence of man-made structures like awnings. Typically, an accumulation of snow or ice is considered unnatural if it is man-made. For example, a mound of snow placed on the sidewalk by a passing snow plow would be considered an unnatural accumulation. Likewise, a patch of ice protected from the sun by an awning might be considered an unnatural accumulation. Ice or snow that has been transformed into another state can also be considered unnatural, such as when snow is compacted and melted from footprints.
The difference between natural and unnatural accumulations of snow and ice has become a basis for legal debate. Oftentimes when individuals sustain injuries from slipping on snow or ice, they want to sue the business or establishment where the incident occurred. However, a business is not at fault when the accumulation of snow or ice in question was created by natural causes. In 1992, the Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts, in Aylward v. McCloskey, held that "the law does not regard the natural accumulation of snow and ice as an actionable property defect."
Wear boots with rubber soles when walking during icy conditions. Try to walk or drive in areas that have been cleaned, shoveled or salted and are free from accumulated snow. If you know conditions are worsening, try to stay inside as much as possible to avoid travel.
Show extra caution when walking or driving on man-made structures in an icy environment. Avoid walking on steel or metallic plates that are sheathed in ice. Walk or drive carefully in shady areas after a snow storm. Ice may still be present in shady areas even after the snow has melted.
