
What Is Negligent Security?
Negligent security means that a property owner has failed to uphold their legal “duty of care” to their patrons, resulting in a robbery, shooting, rape, or assault. Property owners can reduce the odds that their patrons will become a victim of a dangerous attack by installing appropriate security measures, such as security cameras or proper lighting. When there is a history of violent attacks in the area, it’s even more important for property owners to be aware of these risks – and the consequences of failing to act.
Inadequate security cases may include any of the following failures:
- Faulty or inadequate outdoor lighting
- Defective alarms
- Missing or inadequate security systems
- No security cameras
- Faulty gates and doors
- Inaccessible emergency exits
- Missing emergency call stations
- Broken or missing locks
- Faulty or inadequate lighting in hallways and entrances
- No security guards or on-site security staff (when needed)
Of course, not all property owners are required to take the same security measures. While some establishments may only need basic security measures, others may need additional resources to keep their patrons safe. Key examples include nightclubs and late-night transportation services.
Some other properties where owners have a clear responsibility to protect patrons and invitees:
- Public parking garages
- Gas stations
- Theme parks
- Apartment complexes
- Malls
- Concert and entertainment venues
- Movie theaters
- Parks, libraries, and recreational facilities
- Nightclubs and bars
- Public transportation (buses, subways, light rails)
Contact our Houston Negligent Security Attorneys
If you or a loved one were injured and believe the act was permitted because of inadequate security, call our Houston negligent security attorneys to see if you can bring a personal injury claim against the owner of the premises. Property owners must provide adequate security to patrons, and failure to do so may result in liability. At The Ammons Law Firm, we can help you determine your rights under the law and bring a claim against the wrongdoer for your injuries.
Who Is Liable for Negligent Security Injuries?
After surviving a violent attack such as a sexual assault or mass shooting, you will likely be dealing with intense psychological trauma for a long time to come. It may become difficult for you to even visit new places, for fear that your safety and security will be violated once again. Whether you sustain life-threatening injuries or not, these wounds may take many years to heal and necessitate long-term assistance from health professionals.
By holding the right party liable for these serious losses, you may be able to regain some measure of confidence and peace of mind, knowing that you have the financial resources to move forward from the attack. However, determining – and proving – liability in a negligent security case can be difficult. Although the criminal is primarily responsible for your injuries, there could be many different parties who failed to consider your safety.
Common parties in a negligent security lawsuit:
- The property owner
- The property manager or operator
- Security professionals
- Security contractors or service providers
- Third parties
When you call The Ammons Law Firm, our team of experienced negligent security lawyers will help you determine whether you have a case. By carefully investigating your side of the story, reviewing security issues at the property, and relying on our extensive legal knowledge, we can help you make sense of what happened and seek compensation (if appropriate).
Don’t hesitate to contact our Houston legal team today if you’ve been the victim of a violent attack on someone’s property. Call (281) 801-5617 or contact us online.