Negligent security claims may be filed after a property owner fails to provide adequate safety measures, leading to someone being harmed by criminal activity that could have been prevented had proper action been taken in advance of an injurious incident. These cases often involve businesses, landlords or institutions that have a duty to protect visitors and/or tenants.
While negligent security leading to harm can take many forms, certain scenarios occur more frequently than others. The following hazards most commonly contribute to harm, serving as grounds for a negligence security premises liability lawsuit.
1. Inadequate lighting
One of the most frequent negligent security claims involves inadequate lighting. Poorly lit parking lots, stairwells and building entrances create opportunities for assaults, robberies and other crimes. When property owners neglect to maintain proper lighting in areas they know are high risk, victims can argue that the unsafe conditions directly contributed to the harm they’ve suffered.
2. Inadequate guarding
Another common claim is the absence of security personnel or failure to provide properly trained guards. Hotels, apartment complexes, shopping centers and entertainment venues may all require on-site security. If guards are absent, poorly trained or fail to respond appropriately, a property owner can potentially be held responsible when crimes occur.
3. Inadequate locks
Faulty or missing locks also account for many claims. Tenants in apartments or guests in hotels have the right to expect that doors, gates and windows are secured. When locks are broken, outdated or nonexistent, unauthorized individuals can gain access, leading to theft, assaults and even more serious crimes.
4. Inadequate surveillance
Security cameras serve both as deterrents and as tools for investigating incidents. Properties with broken or nonexistent cameras can create an environment where criminal activity thrives. In some cases, cameras may exist but are not monitored or maintained, which can also support a claim of negligence.
5. Inadequate responses
Finally, negligent security claims often involve failure to respond to known risks. For example, if a business or apartment complex has a history of prior criminal incidents but takes no additional precautions, victims may argue that the property owner at issue ignored foreseeable dangers and contributed to their harm as a result.
By holding property owners accountable, negligent security claims can not only provide justice for victims but can also encourage safer environments for everyone.