Understanding Your Rights
When you visit a business, apartment complex, hotel, or public venue, you expect a reasonable level of safety. Property owners and businesses have a legal responsibility to provide adequate security measures to prevent foreseeable harm to visitors, customers, and tenants. When they fail in this duty, and someone is injured due to criminal activity or unsafe conditions, it may be a case of negligent security—a serious legal issue that can lead to personal injury claims.
At Rogers Sevastianos & Bante, we have extensive experience handling negligent security cases, fighting for victims who have suffered harm due to a property owner’s failure to maintain a safe environment. If you or a loved one has been injured due to inadequate security, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress.
What is Negligent Security?
Negligent security occurs when a property owner or manager fails to take reasonable steps to prevent foreseeable crimes or injuries on their premises. These cases often arise in everyday locations such as bars, restaurants, hotels, and other public spaces.
- Bar Fights and Shootings – Establishments that serve alcohol have a heightened responsibility to maintain a safe environment. When tensions escalate—particularly when alcohol is involved—businesses should have trained staff and clear protocols in place to de-escalate situations and prevent violence. A failure to do so can result in serious injuries from fights, shootings, or other violent encounters.
- Hotel Security – Hotels and motels have a duty to protect guests during their stay—especially when guests are at their most vulnerable, such as while sleeping or relaxing. Poor security practices in hotel rooms, parking lots, or secluded areas of large complexes can result in devastating crimes like sexual assault, robbery, or other attacks. Innkeepers must take reasonable precautions to deter criminal activity and ensure guest safety.
Some additional examples include:
- Inadequate Lighting – Poorly lit parking lots, stairwells, or hallways can create opportunities for criminal activity.
- Lack of Security Personnel – Certain businesses, such as nightclubs, apartment complexes, or shopping centers, may require security guards to protect patrons.
- Broken or Missing Security Cameras – Surveillance cameras help deter criminal behavior. Their absence or malfunction can contribute to preventable crimes.
- Defective Locks or Broken Gates – Unsecured doors, gates, or windows make it easier for criminals to access private or restricted areas.
- Failure to Respond to Prior Incidents – If a business or property has a history of crime but fails to implement safety measures, they can be held liable for future incidents.
If any of these factors played a role in your injury, you may have a valid negligent security claim.
Common Injuries Resulting from Negligent Security
Negligent security can lead to devastating injuries, including:
- Assault and battery injuries
- Gunshot wounds or stabbing injuries
- Sexual assault and related trauma
- Slip-and-fall injuries caused by fleeing attackers
- Psychological distress, PTSD, and emotional trauma
These cases often involve violent crimes that could have been prevented if the property owner had taken proper precautions.
How Rogers Sevastianos & Bante Can Help
Navigating a negligent security claim requires experienced legal representation. At Rogers Sevastianos & Bante, we:
- Investigate the Property’s Security History – We review past incidents, police reports, and security footage to determine whether the owner failed to take proper precautions.
- Establish Liability – We work to prove that the property owner knew (or should have known) about potential dangers but failed to address them.
- Pursue Maximum Compensation – Victims of negligent security may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
- Handle Insurance Companies and Legal Proceedings – We negotiate aggressively to ensure that insurance companies and businesses take responsibility for their negligence.
Take Action Today
If you or a loved one has been injured due to negligent security, don’t wait to seek justice. The law provides you with the right to hold negligent property owners accountable for their inaction. Rogers Sevastianos & Bante will fight to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation and let our experienced legal team help you take the first step toward recovery.
Disclaimer: The information in this blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every legal situation is unique, and you should consult an attorney for personalized guidance on your specific circumstances.