Commercial and residential property owners have a duty to keep their property safe. This means making sure there is adequate security on the premises. Failure to do so may result in people getting seriously injured or killed.

Last year, inadequate security at businesses and residences resulted in the following crimes:

• Assault and battery (42%)
• Sexual assault and rape (26%)
• Wrongful death (15%)
• Robbery (9%)
• False Imprisonment (4%)
• Home invasion, carjacking, and arson (4%)

Inadequate security at a business may result in unprovoked attacks, innocent bystander injuries, or injuries from negligent security personnel. While a business may be safe during the day, shopping malls, parking lots, garages, apartment buildings, nightclubs, sports venues, and hotels are dangerous after dark and require extra precautionary measures to ensure the safety of all patrons. Many businesses may even require security during daylight hours because of previous incidents and criminal activity on the premises. In these circumstances, it is foreseeable that dangerous activity may occur, so proper steps should be undertaken to prevent them. In some instances, the general nature of a business – for example businesses that cater to large crowds, sell alcohol, or promote nighttime activities – may require that proper security measures be put, and remain, in place.

The following businesses, too often, fail to have adequate security, which causes severe injuries and death to people on their premises:

• Apartment buildings
• Convenience stores
• Gas stations
• Hotels
• Nightclubs
• Bars
• Restaurants
• Parking lots
• Garages
• Malls

Property and business owners must take reasonable steps to ensure the safety of people legally on their premises. Here are some of the most common things property owners fail to adequately do or provide:

• Security assessment
• Security measures
• Surveillance and video cameras
• Security company
• Adequate number of employees and staff
• Background checks
• Adequate lighting in parking lots, garages, hallways, and staircases
• Maintain the premises

Each case is unique and should be analyzed and handled by an experienced and competent attorney who understands the legal ins and outs of a negligent security case. Getting us involved right away allows us to start building a solid case on your behalf before evidence becomes unavailable. Negligent Security Lawyer André Crenshaw will determine if a property owner failed to provide a reasonable level of safety on the premises for patrons and customers. Our legal team will:

• Consult with you thoroughly to understand the facts of your case and how the incident has affected you
• Investigate the incident
• Secure critical evidence and witness testimony
• Research previous criminal activity and incidents on the property and surrounding area
• Negotiate and litigate your case against the property owner, security company, and any other party responsible for your injuries
• Get you the financial justice you deserve!