Sometimes when you feel the safest – such as at your rental home or place of business – danger may be lurking out of sight. If you are the victim of a crime at a commercial or rental property, you may be able to file a negligent security lawsuit against the management company or landlord. This comes as a surprise to many people. Negligent security is a body of law under the umbrella of premises security law, and it provides civil reparations for harmful acts and crimes perpetrated against an individual. The law assumes that Florida property owners are legally obligated to keep tenants, visitors, and vendors safe by ensuring the property offers basic security and employs adequate safety measures. If you have suffered injuries on someone else’s property and have evidence to prove it was due to inadequate premises safety measures, you may be eligible to collect damages for your injuries.
When Can You File a Negligent Security Lawsuit?
An apartment complex or business center has a duty to keep tenants, residents, employees, visitors, and guests safe and secure. “Negligent security” assumes that injury or damage could have been avoided if adequate safety measures had been in place.
Very few individuals would lease an apartment if they understood that they were in danger of becoming a victim of a crime. Florida premises law outlines the security measures which commercial properties are required to implement. If a victim can prove that the property owner did not ensure proper security and they were victimized on-premises, the owner may be held liable for their injuries.
Recommended Safety Measures for Property Owners
- Electronic Access: Restricting access through the utilization of gates or manned security is an excellent first line of defense. Allowing entry to building lobbies only with a key card or FOB will help to prevent non-residents from intruding or loitering. Commercial owners may consider utilizing the same FOB/keycard to activate elevators. All doors should be locked to everyone overnight, except for a primary access location that is illuminated and monitored by security or cameras.
- Security Cameras: The majority of any commercial property or complex should be monitored by security cameras. All entrances, doors, elevators, and hallways must have working cameras. Not only will this assist law enforcement in apprehending a perpetrator should something take place, but the mere presence of cameras often deters the crime entirely.
- State-of-the-Art Locks: One of the most effective measures an owner can put in place for residents or tenants is the installation of security-conscious, heavy-duty door locks incapable of being kicked in or breached.
- Bright Lights and Well-Lit Areas: If residents have to park in a dark corner of the parking lot or if the lobby is dimly lit, there is more chance for criminals to be tempted. Bright spotlights, floodlights, and motion-activated lights are recommended.
- Armed Security Guards/Concierge: Depending on the area statistics and crime rate, owners may wish to employ armed security personnel to patrol the property or be stationed at every access point.
If you think you have the grounds for a negligent security claim, call the attorneys at Probinsky & Cole. We are here to discuss the merits of your case, help you identify any liable parties, and pursue the matter in court if necessary. Call today to schedule an initial consultation in our Sarasota, Tampa, or Orlando area offices. We are here to defend your rights and get you the compensation you deserve.
