You should feel safe and secure in your home, even if you live in an apartment complex or a house that someone else owns. Further, you should be able to go to a bar or walk through a parking lot without fear. The owners of these properties are required to provide adequate security for tenants and guests, especially in areas with high crime rates.
If you or a loved one was a victim of a crime that the owner or manager of the premises could have prevented, you should talk to a Mount Dora negligent security lawyer at Largey Law Firm to learn about your legal options. Our personal injury attorneys could help you file a lawsuit against the owner to recover financial compensation for your injuries.
What Does Reasonable Security Look Like?
Landowners and building managers have a duty to protect people who enter the premises, which includes removing or warning about dangerous hazards. They must also provide reasonable security for foreseeable criminal activity. Some examples of such measures could be:
- Locked gates and controlled access
- Surveillance cameras
- Patrolling guards or other qualified personnel
- Proper lighting so the whole area is visible
Similarly, owners need to be sure that what they have already in place is in proper working order and make repairs if necessary. For instance, a broken lock on a door needs to be fixed or replaced in a timely manner.
Unfortunately, some owners choose to ignore this duty, putting tenants and patrons in danger. Examples may include a bar owner who does not hire a doorman or security team to prevent fights, or an apartment owner who does not fix the gate that allows a robber to enter the building.
These are just a couple of ways that inadequate safety measures could result in harm. An experienced negligent security attorney could help victims hold the Mount Dora property owner accountable for allowing the crime to occur.
Potential Compensation for Crime Victims
Even if the criminal was apprehended and later convicted, the process is lengthy, and there is no guarantee that the victim will receive any benefit. However, a skilled lawyer could help file a claim against the Mount Dora landowner or management company and hold them accountable for the poor security.
Cases like these fall under premises liability, which is a civil matter rather than a criminal one. This allows the victim to recover financial compensation from the property owner for damages caused by the lack of safety. In general, victims could claim economic damages, including any hospital treatment, lost income if they are unable to work, and the costs to replace any stolen personal items. It may also be possible to claim non-economic damages for the emotional trauma, depression, and anxiety that many victims of violent crimes experience.
Consult a Mount Dora Attorney About a Negligent Security Case
If you believe that inadequate safety measures resulted in you being the victim of a crime, you may be able to file a claim against your landlord or other property owner. Contact a Mount Dora negligent security lawyer at Laregy Law Firm to learn about your options.
Our attorneys take a hands-on approach and provide advice on the best path forward for your situation. Call Largey Law Firm to speak with a member of our team.
