It’s Super Bowl weekend, and all eyes are on the Kansas City Chiefs vs. the Philadelphia Eagles—but while the game brings excitement, winter weather and celebrations can lead to unexpected dangers. Slip-and-fall accidents, drunk driving crashes, and winter weather hazards can turn a fun night into a legal nightmare. Whether you’re hosting a party or traveling to a gathering, failing to take the proper precautions could lead to serious injuries, legal consequences, or liability claims. At The Law Offices of James A. Welcome, our team wants to help Connecticut residents stay safe and informed during one of the most dangerous weekends of the year.

Property Owners: Your Legal Obligation for Snow and Ice Removal

We’re expecting 6 to 12 inches of snow this weekend, which means we all need to be extra careful—both on the roads and around our homes. Under Connecticut General Statutes § 14-252a, property owners must clear accumulated snow and ice from their vehicles before driving. Not only is it the law, but it also helps prevent dangerous situations for you and others on the road. Additionally, towns and municipalities have strict rules requiring sidewalks to be cleared in a timely manner to avoid hazardous conditions for pedestrians.

Neglecting to remove snow or ice can result in fines, and worse, it could lead to slip-and-fall injuries for which a property owner may be held liable. With heavy snowfall on the way, now is the time to prepare—whether that means stocking up on salt, checking your snow blower, or setting aside time to clear walkways and driveways. Staying ahead of the snow ensures everyone stays safe during the winter storm.

Tips to Minimize Property Liability Risks:

✔ Shovel and de-ice walkways, driveways, and stairs promptly after snowfall. Connecticut law allows property owners a reasonable time after a storm to clear hazards.
✔ Place mats at entryways to prevent indoor slips caused by melted snow.
✔ Ensure outdoor lighting is functional so guests can see icy patches before stepping outside.
✔ Monitor weather conditions throughout the evening and reapply salt or sand as needed.

Connecticut’s DUI Laws

With Super Bowl parties often involving alcohol, driving under the influence (DUI) remains one of the most common causes of serious accidents. Connecticut General Statutes § 14-227a prohibits operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or 0.02% for drivers under 21.

Penalties for DUI in Connecticut:

• First offense – Up to 6 months in jail, fines between $500 and $1,000, a 45-day license suspension, and mandatory ignition interlock device (IID) for 1 year.
• Second offense – Up to 2 years in jail, a 45-day suspension, and an IID for 3 years.
• Third offense – Permanent license revocation, a mandatory 1-year jail sentence, and fines up to $8,000.

If you or a loved one are injured due to a drunk driver this weekend, our firm is ready to help you pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Super Bowl Safety: What Party Hosts Should Know

If you’re hosting a Super Bowl party, your responsibility doesn’t end at the front door. Connecticut law holds social hosts accountable for serving alcohol, and you could be liable if an intoxicated guest causes an accident after leaving your home.

Ways to Host a Safer Super Bowl Gathering:

✔ Limit alcohol service toward the end of the night to allow guests time to sober up.
✔ Offer non-alcoholic beverages and plenty of food to slow alcohol absorption.
✔ Encourage guests to arrange a ride home before the game begins.
✔ Have a list of rideshare services available for guests who may need them.

Winter Driving Precautions: Stay Safe on Connecticut Roads

Snow and ice increase the risk of multi-car pileups, skidding, and reduced visibility. If you must drive during the storm, follow these winter safety tips:

✔ Drive slower and increase following distance – Black ice is nearly invisible and can cause unexpected skids.
✔ Check your tires and brakes before heading out – Worn tires reduce traction and stopping power.
✔ Never drive drowsy or distracted – If you’re fatigued after a long game night, stay overnight or arrange for a sober driver.
✔ Use your headlights and hazard lights in heavy snow to improve visibility.

Injured This Super Bowl Weekend? Contact a Connecticut Personal Injury Attorney

If you or a loved one slip and fall on an icy property, are hit by a drunk driver, or suffer injuries due to negligence this weekend, you have legal options. At The Law Offices of James A. Welcome, our personal injury team has been protecting Connecticut residents for over 20 years. We fight for victims of premises liability, auto accidents, and winter driving injuries to ensure they receive the compensation they deserve.

Call us today for a free consultation at (203) 753-7300. Don’t let someone else’s negligence impact your future—we’re here to help you recover.