If you or a loved one was the victim of a violent crime, you might feel angry and violated. This can be especially true if a business you trusted failed to provide adequate and reasonable security that may have prevented the attack. Fortunately, you may be able to hold that business liable for its inadequate security if you suffered injuries and damages, allowing you to recover compensation.
To speak with a negligent security lawyer in Atlanta about your injuries, call S. Burke Law today: 404-842-7838.
What Parties May Be Liable for Negligent Security?
Rape, assault and battery, robbery, abduction, and even homicide are examples of crimes that can result from inadequate security. You may be able to hold the following types of businesses liable for failing to take reasonable security measures:
- Apartment complexes
- Hotels
- Your place of employment
- Nightclubs, bars, or taverns
- Shopping malls
- Public transportation (e.g., bus systems, train systems)
- Office buildings
- Parking garages or parking lots
- Hospitals and long-term care facilities
- Schools, colleges, or universities
- Daycare facilities
- Amusement parks
- Convenience stores
- Stadiums, arenas, or concert venues
- Cruise ships
- Movie theaters
- Security companies
Under What Circumstances Is a Business Liable for Negligent Security?
To hold any party responsible for your damages because it failed to provide adequate security that could have prevented your attack and injuries, you must establish a few key factors:
- Defendant owed you a duty of care.
- Defendant failed to take reasonable security measures. "Reasonable" security measures might vary based on the location, crime in the area, type of business/property, and other factors.
- The inadequate security measures contributed to an attack in which you suffered injuries. E.g., a hotel fails to install cameras or security guards despite its location in a high-crime area, failing to prevent an attack that led to your injuries.
- You suffered injuries and damages because of the violent attack.
What Compensation Is Recoverable in a Claim Alleging Negligent Security?
If you can prove that the owner, operator, or security provider was liable for your damages, you are entitled to compensation for your damages. Damages come in many forms and could include:
- Lost wages and loss of future earning potential
- Hospitalization and other medical bills
- Pain management
- Long-term care
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Wrongful death damages
- Emotional distress (such as PTSD or damages related to permanent disfigurement)
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium
- Future medical expenses
What Evidence Do I Need to Prove Negligent Security?
Holding property owners, business operators, security contractors, and the like liable for their negligent security requires more than proving an injury occurred on the defendant’s property. We will collect evidence that establishes the security provided by the defendant was inadequate given the location, crime rates, and other factors affecting the circumstances of the case.
Some evidence we may use to prove negligent security include:
- Expert witnesses
- Photographs of the property and crime scene, such as of broken windows, gates, security arms, cameras, etc.
- Video surveillance footage, or evidence that security cameras were not working at the time of the attack
- Records from the defendant, such as security logs or hiring records
- Eyewitness statements regarding the attack and security measures at the time
The evidence we use will vary depending on the case. Call us to set up a consultation so we can review your case and start building your case: 404-842-7838.
Get Help From a Negligent Security Attorney in Atlanta
Negligent security claims are complex and require in-depth knowledge of Georgia tort law. Our experience with intentional tort and premises liability claims informs how we will approach your case.
Sheryl Burke is a former insurance adjuster and knows the tactics insurers use to minimize or deny claims. For example, an insurance company may attempt to get you to offer a lowball settlement shortly after you file your claim. Or the insurer may ask you for a recorded statement, and then twist your words to reduce the value of your claim. We anticipate these tactics, prepare you for them, and counter them with a well-planned case strategy.
As a crime victim herself, Sheryl Burke is dedicated to helping victims get justice for injuries they suffer in a violent attack by ensuring they have compensation to pay their medical bills, make up for lost wages, and account for their other damages. Get started today. Call 404-842-7838 to set up a free consultation. There is no obligation and we do not collect legal fees unless you collect compensation for damages.