Negligent security is a critical area of law that focuses on the responsibilities of property owners to ensure safe environments for visitors. On today’s episode of Coffee with Q, Rene Perras and attorney Joe Osborne dive into what constitutes negligent security, common types of incidents, and the steps property owners and victims should take to address safety concerns.
What is Negligent Security?
Negligent security refers to situations where businesses, property owners, or corporations fail to implement adequate safety measures, exposing the public to risks such as criminal activities. This negligence can lead to serious harm to patrons, employees, and visitors.
Security Measures Property Owners Should Implement
Effective security varies depending on the type of property and includes:
- Security Guards: Armed or unarmed, based on the potential risk.
- Boundary Protocols: Monitoring entry and exit points.
- Proper Lighting: Essential for parking lots and areas around venues.
- Police Presence: Acts as a powerful deterrent to crime.
By taking these steps, property owners protect their guests and reduce the likelihood of incidents.
Common Incidents Leading to Negligent Security Claims
Negligent security claims often arise from incidents such as:
- Parking Lot Crimes: Robberies and assaults in locations like malls and shopping centers.
- Apartment Complex Violence: Criminal activities like shootings and robberies.
- Bar and Restaurant Assaults: Fights and confrontations due to alcohol or overcrowding.
- Mass Shootings: Tragic incidents in public spaces, including cinemas, bars, and events.
Determining Liability in Negligent Security Cases
The process starts with analyzing a “crime grid,” which details past criminal activity at a location. Property owners must assess a decade’s worth of crime data to determine the level of security required.
If there is a history of criminal activity, property owners must implement appropriate security protocols, such as employing guards or enhancing surveillance. Employers should also conduct thorough background checks on employees to prevent individuals with criminal records from interacting with the public in unsupervised settings.
Steps for Victims After a Negligent Security Incident
Joe Osborne emphasizes the importance of immediate action:
- Contact an Attorney Quickly: Surveillance footage often operates on a 72-hour loop. Prompt action is essential to preserve evidence.
- Gather Witness Information: Witnesses can provide valuable insights and eyewitness accounts of incidents.
- Seek Medical Attention: Documenting injuries is crucial for legal cases and ensures victims receive proper care.
A Real Case Example
Joe Osborne, a Boca Raton Florida Negligent security Lawyer shares a recent case of a woman who suffered severe injuries in a purse-snatching attempt at a South Florida mall. The incident highlighted the mall’s lack of security measures, such as guards or security patrols, despite a long history of crime. The victim sustained significant injuries and required extensive medical treatment, counseling, and psychological support. Osborne’s team successfully resolved the case, securing compensation for her medical and psychological needs.
Negligent security cases underscore the importance of property owners proactively implementing safety measures to protect the public. This not only helps to deter criminal activities but also ensures that property owners fulfill their duty of care.
Stay tuned for Part 2, where we will delve deeper into the legal aspects of negligent security and discuss how victims can seek justice.
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