Most people do not think about security when they visit a shopping center, apartment complex, hotel, or parking garage. They assume the property owner has taken reasonable steps to keep the area safe. Unfortunately, that assumption is not always correct.
When property owners fail to provide adequate security in areas where crime is foreseeable, innocent people can become victims of assault, robbery, sexual violence, or even wrongful death. In Florida, these cases fall under premises liability law, specifically negligent security claims.
Violent crime is traumatic enough. When it could have been prevented, the emotional and legal consequences are even more profound.
What Is Negligent Security?
Negligent security occurs when a property owner fails to take reasonable measures to prevent foreseeable criminal activity. While property owners are not automatically responsible for every crime that happens on their premises, they do have a duty to address known risks.
Examples of negligent security may include:
- Broken or missing locks
- Poor lighting in parking lots or stairwells
- Lack of security cameras
- Non-functioning surveillance systems
- Failure to hire security personnel in high-crime areas
- Ignoring prior criminal incidents on the property
If a crime was reasonably foreseeable and the property owner failed to act, they may be held liable.
Where Do Negligent Security Incidents Commonly Occur?
In Florida, negligent security cases frequently arise in:
- Apartment complexes
- Hotels and resorts
- Shopping centers
- Nightclubs and bars
- Parking garages
- Office buildings
- College campuses
- Gated communities
In busy areas like Orlando, where tourism and nightlife are prominent, security concerns are particularly significant.
The Role of Foreseeability in These Cases
One of the most critical factors in negligent security claims is foreseeability. Courts often examine whether prior criminal activity occurred in or near the property.
Questions that may arise include:
- Were there previous assaults or robberies nearby?
- Did tenants or guests complain about safety concerns?
- Were there known issues with lighting or broken locks?
- Did management ignore security recommendations?
If a history of crime existed and no action was taken, liability becomes more likely.
Types of Crimes That Lead to Negligent Security Claims
Victims of negligent security may suffer from devastating crimes, including:
- Physical assault
- Armed robbery
- Sexual assault
- Carjacking
- Kidnapping
- Homicide
The physical injuries alone can be severe, but the emotional trauma is often long-lasting and life-altering.
The Emotional Impact of Violent Crime
Unlike many personal injury cases, negligent security claims often involve profound psychological harm.
Victims may experience:
These emotional injuries are real, serious, and legally recognized as compensable damages.
Who Can Be Held Responsible?
Liability may extend beyond a single individual. Responsible parties could include:
Each case requires a detailed investigation to identify all potentially liable parties.
Compensation Available in Negligent Security Cases
Victims of violent crime resulting from inadequate security may be entitled to compensation for:
The extent of compensation depends on the severity of the harm and the degree of negligence involved.
Why These Cases Require Immediate Action
Evidence in negligent security cases can disappear quickly. Surveillance footage may be deleted, witness memories fade, and property conditions can change.
Taking early legal action allows for:
- Preservation of security footage
- Review of maintenance and incident records
- Documentation of property conditions
- Interviews with witnesses
Time can be a critical factor in building a strong case.
How Moore Payne Advocates for Victims of Negligent Security
At Moore Payne, we understand that victims of violent crime are dealing with more than just physical injuries. These cases require sensitivity, thorough investigation, and strong legal advocacy.
Our approach includes:
- Investigating prior criminal activity
- Reviewing property maintenance and security policies
- Consulting safety and security experts
- Holding negligent property owners accountable
- Pursuing full and fair compensation
We work to ensure that victims are not left to carry the burden alone.
Taking the First Step Toward Accountability
If you or a loved one was injured due to inadequate security at an apartment complex, hotel, shopping center, or other property in Orlando or anywhere in Florida, you may have legal options.
Moore Payne is committed to helping victims of negligent security pursue justice, accountability, and the financial support needed to move forward.
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