Winter Safety in Northern Nevada: What Homeowners & Pedestrians Need to Know

Featuring Regina Bradley & Philip Dorin of Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney on KTVN “2 Plus You Nevada”

As winter settles into Northern Nevada, conditions on our roads, sidewalks, and neighborhoods change quickly. Snow, ice, early darkness, and busy holiday gatherings all create heightened risks for injuries and accidents.

Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney attorneys Regina Bradley and Phillip Dorin recently joined Sarah Johns on KTVN’s “2 Plus You Nevada” to discuss key safety reminders to follow during the winters of Northern Nevada and how liability works when these winter accidents occur.

Watch the full interview below.

Your Responsibility as a Homeowner: Sidewalks, Snow & Hazards

One of the biggest misconceptions addressed in the interview involves who is responsible for clearing sidewalks. Many people assume that because a sidewalk belongs to the city, homeowners cannot be held liable for injuries. In Nevada, that is not the case.

“As a homeowner, you do have an obligation to maintain a clean and clear sidewalk,”
Regina explained.

“If you don’t remove the snow and someone slips and falls and suffers an injury, you may be liable for their injury claim.”

This duty includes:

• Removing snow and ice
• Clearing leaves and debris
• Taking care of hazards caused by your own property (such as tree roots uplifting concrete)

If the sidewalk is degrading due to its old age and not because of something on your property, you may not be responsible. However, Regina stressed it is better to be proactive.

“It’s important to err on the side of caution. If there’s an issue, contact the city and put them on notice about a degrading sidewalk.”

Pedestrian, Cyclist & E-Bike Safety in Winter

With reduced daylight and slick road conditions, winter becomes a dangerous season for pedestrians and cyclists.

Phil said

“Bicycles and e-bikes are treated the same way as motor vehicles. Drivers need to yield to them, and cyclists must follow the same rules of the road.”

This is a reminder to our viewers that the law here in Nevada treats bicycles and e-bikes similarly to cars in several respects:

He also discussed visibility concerns as the days get shorter.

“It’s important to stay as far as you can to the right because vehicles are a lot larger than bikes, especially when it gets dark early.”

Regina added –

“Nevada does require cyclists to have bike lights on at dusk. We’re seeing a lot more e-bikes, so it’s imperative that riders follow the law and make sure vehicles can see them.”

What Are Your Liabilities as a Homeowner While Hosting Holiday Gatherings?

The winter months bring an increase in festive gatherings like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. With these many larger gatherings come increased risks.

Regina emphasized the importance of planning ahead:

“It’s important to be mindful of your guests and to make sure people are being safe. Encourage Ubers, Lyfts, or designated drivers so no one is getting overserved and driving home intoxicated.”

While liability for guests driving intoxicated can be complicated, Regina explained that prevention is always the safest path.

Homeowners also need to think beyond alcohol.

Phil added:

“It’s really important to keep your entryway clear. Before any gathering, check to make sure you have homeowners’ insurance for anything that may occur on your property.”

Simple hazards like wet floors, uneven walkways, or clutter can lead to trip-and-fall injuries.

Regina also noted a commonly overlooked issue, which is pets.

“If you know your dog isn’t friendly, it’s best to keep that dog crated or away from your guests so that’s not an issue.”

Stay Safe & Informed This Winter With Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney

Winter in Northern Nevada can be beautiful, but it brings real risks for homeowners, pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. Taking proactive steps to maintain your property, stay visible, and look out for guests can help prevent accidents and protect you from potential liability.

If you or a loved one is injured due to unsafe conditions, Bradley, Drendel & Jeanne is here to help. Our experienced personal injury attorneys can help you understand your rights and stand by your side to help you understand the complexity of winter-related claims.

Northern Nevada’s Most Trusted Trial Lawyers, Since 1957

Are you looking for Legal Guidance in Northern Nevada after a Winter Accident?

Contact Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney today to schedule a consultation. For almost 70 years, we have helped injured Nevadans rebuild their lives. From record-breaking verdicts to generations of trial-proven attorneys, our firm continues to set the standard for personal injury cases in Northern Nevada.

When you’re facing medical bills, loss, or uncertainty about the future, hiring someone with the right experience and knowledge about Nevedan Laws is very important. Our team brings decades of legal insight, deep Nevada roots, and a client-first approach to every case.

Call us for a free consultation. Let our legacy of strength, skill, and results protect your future.