A negligent security situation led to an $8.6 million settlement in 2024 after 17-year-old Justin Acevedo was shot in the head while sitting in his parked car at an apartment complex. The suit maintained that the property was certainly in need of basic security features, including access control, surveillance cameras, and on-site security. It was also said that the complex had already experienced prior shootings.
The example above shows how negligence in security can lead to injuries or losses. And knowing your rights as a victim is important to know when to call a negligent security lawyer to assert your rights.
Property owners should take security seriously, says Huntington Beach negligent security lawyer. They must be proactive in preventing future crimes. Once they have failed in this basic duty of care, you can seek legal help to demand payment for what you have suffered.
Let’s discuss what the signs are that you need the help of a negligent security lawyer.
Recognizing the Signs of Negligent Security
You will notice if there is negligence in security in an establishment, according to negligent security lawyer Dalton Trammell. If there are no security cameras, no response to an emergency call, or failure to heed dangerous warnings, these are examples of negligent security, including the lack of properly trained security and having no proper lighting in dark areas.
When making a surveillance sweep, one must be keen on clues that may suggest negligently exposed security.
If the parking or hallway lighting is poor, they create unsafe situations. Broken locks, doors without keys, entrances with no security observer, or blank walls with blank cameras are also signs of negligence.
Don’t loiter around places without any visible security personnel around. You should also take note of whether the security guards are prompt in their response when incidents and disturbances happen. A delayed response could signify a lack of security service.
Awareness of the surroundings should also be coupled with listening to instinctive signals. Instincts usually point to something unusual or rather sinister without any rational explanation. It is always better to trust one’s feelings and take appropriate action to preserve personal safety.
Recognizing such early signs helps a person protect himself and evaluate the prerequisite of further intervention.
Types of Incidents That May Indicate Negligent Security
Incidents occurring on a property reveal significant security oversight. Taking the parking lot as an example, a robbery and assault would likely occur when there is poor lighting and poor surveillance in the parking lot.
Negligence is evident when known violent crime incidents occur nearby without any attempts to enhance the property’s security.
Unrestricted building access can give an undeniable indication that there is no regard for security. You can notice them with broken locks or open gates.
Reports of theft or vandalism clearly demonstrate a lack of concern for security.
Understanding Your Legal Rights as a Victim
How do you survive the aftermath of crime and keep your rights intact?
It is important for you to know first of all that you are a victim and therefore have rights. You can file claims for medical bills, lost wages, and damages for emotional trauma related to the incident.
Each state has its particular victim’s rights. Get yourself acquainted with local laws in this regard. Some of them might have counseling support and other resources on their behalf.
Never let yourself feel pressured to negotiate alone. Talk to a negligent security lawyer for peace of mind. They will explain the legal processes to you so that you can focus on your recovery while your rights are protected.
Gathering Evidence for Your Negligent Security Case
Once you have learned about your rights as a victim, the next thing to do is to collect evidence that can back your claim of negligent security.
First, collect documents about the incident. Include photographs of the location, injuries, and any other condition relevant to the case. Find witnesses and obtain their statements. Their statements may very much affect the result of your case. Keep copies of any police reports or medical records. You may need them to back up your case.
Obtaining security camera footage of the area would help illustrate any security lapses. A pattern of negligence can be established when you make a written list of prior incidents that happened on the premises.
Finally, keep all correspondence made in connection with this matter. This information may be useful to establish your claim. Any piece of evidence is a building block for a strong case.
When to Seek Professional Legal Assistance
Contact a negligent security attorney if you have been injured, emotionally distraught, or financially affected by the lack of security arrangements. They can help you understand your rights and lead you through the complexities of your case.
If an owner or security declined to exercise reasonable care about your safety when the incident happened, you probably have a valid claim.
A lawyer could also help if you’re having a hard time either gathering the evidence or dealing with the insurance companies.
Don’t wait for long, because negligent security cases follow the statute of limitations, which can take away your right to file a claim. Acting fast increases the chance of having a fair resolution.
