When property owners fail to take reasonable steps to protect visitors and tenants from foreseeable harm, the consequences can be devastating. Assaults, robberies, and other violent crimes can occur on properties that lack adequate security measures, leaving victims with life-altering injuries and emotional trauma.
At Berg Injury Lawyers, we believe that property owners must be held accountable for their negligence when it results in injuries and harm to others. Our experienced Fresno negligent security lawyers are dedicated to helping victims seek justice and obtain the compensation they need to move forward. If you or a loved one has been harmed due to negligent security, contact us today for a free consultation.
Understanding Negligent Security in Fresno
Negligent security refers to a property owner’s failure to implement reasonable security measures to deter foreseeable criminal acts on their premises. To prove a negligent security claim in Fresno, several key legal elements must be established:
- Duty of Care: The property owner owed a duty of care to the victim (e.g., a visitor or tenant), meaning there was a legal obligation to take reasonable steps to prevent foreseeable harm.
- Breach of Duty: The property owner failed to uphold their duty of care by not implementing adequate security measures.
- Causation: The property owner’s breach of duty caused the victim’s injuries.
- Damages: The victim suffered actual damages, such as physical injuries, emotional distress, or financial losses, as a result of the incident.
Examples of situations that could constitute negligent security include:
- Inadequate Lighting: Poorly lit areas can create opportunities for criminals to act without being seen.
- Broken Locks or Gates: Malfunctioning security measures can make it easy for unauthorized individuals to access a property.
- Lack of Security Personnel: In high-risk areas, the presence of security guards can deter crime and provide immediate assistance in emergencies.
- Failure to Address Known Risks: If a property owner is aware of a history of crime on their premises and fails to take action, they can be held liable for subsequent incidents.
Proving negligent security can be complex, requiring a thorough investigation and legal skill. At Berg Injury Lawyers, our Fresno premises liability lawyers have the knowledge and experience to build a strong case on your behalf.
Common Locations for Negligent Security Incidents
Negligent security incidents can happen at all types of properties throughout Fresno, but some places are more prone to these types of incidents than others. Here are some common locations where negligent security incidents may occur:
- Apartment Complexes: Large apartment complexes with multiple entry points and shared spaces can be vulnerable to crime if security measures are inadequate. Lack of proper lighting, broken gates, and insufficient security patrols can increase the risk of assaults, robberies, and other criminal activities.
- Hotels and Motels: Travelers are often targeted by criminals due to their perceived vulnerability. Hotels and motels have a responsibility to ensure the safety of their guests by providing adequate security measures, such as well-lit parking lots, secure room locks, and surveillance cameras.
- Shopping Malls and Retail Stores: These bustling locations can attract criminals looking for easy targets. Inadequate security personnel, poorly monitored entrances and exits, and insufficient surveillance can contribute to the risk of theft, assault, and other crimes.
- Parking Garages and Lots: Isolated and often poorly lit, parking structures can be prime locations for criminal activity. Property owners should ensure proper lighting and surveillance cameras to deter criminals and protect visitors.
- Bars and Nightclubs: The combination of alcohol, crowds, and late-night hours can create an environment where violence is more likely to occur. Bars and nightclubs must take precautions to prevent overserving patrons, monitor for aggressive behavior, and provide adequate security personnel to maintain order and protect patrons.
- Office Buildings: While typically considered safer than other locations, office buildings can still be targets for crime, especially in isolated areas or during off-hours. Adequate access control, security cameras, and alarm systems are essential for protecting employees and visitors.
Compensation for Negligent Security Cases in Fresno
If you’ve been injured due to negligent security in Fresno, you have the right to seek compensation for your losses. Berg Injury Lawyers is dedicated to helping you navigate the complex process of recovering damages and holding negligent property owners accountable.
The damages you might able to pursue include:
- Medical Bills: Costs associated with hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and ongoing treatment for your injuries
- Lost Wages and Future Earning Potential: Compensation for the income you’ve missed due to your inability to work while recovering from your injuries, as well as potential income you’ll lose in the future
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve suffered, such as depression or PTSD
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for any personal belongings that were damaged or lost during the incident
It’s important to understand that every negligent security case is unique, and the specific damages you can recover will depend on the circumstances of your situation. Our Fresno negligent security lawyers have the experience and expertise to evaluate your case, calculate your damages, and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Contact Our Fresno Negligent Security Lawyers
If you or a loved one has been injured due to negligent security in Fresno, reach out to Berg Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation. We can investigate the incident, review security footage, interview witnesses, and build a strong case on your behalf. We can also handle all communication with insurance companies and negotiate aggressively to get you a fair settlement. Get in touch with our Fresno negligent security lawyers and let us put our experience and resources to work for you.
