Property and business owners owe a duty of care to individuals and visits on their property. This means that, when somebody is utilizing an apartment complex parking lot, they should be kept safe from all harm. Unfortunately, this does not always happen and sometimes a tragic sexual assault or other type of attack can occur in one of these areas. For the survivor of a sexual assault, there may be options available for you under California negligent security laws.
Our lawyers at Maison Law have compassionately assisted individuals who have been hurt in attacks throughout California over the years. Bringing a negligent security claim can come with many complexities and leave you with questions that you may not be able to answer on your own. We are here to stand by your side every step of the way in your claim so that you get the support that is fair to you. Please do not hesitate to contact us for more information and a free consultation.
How Common is the Issue of Sexual Assault in Apartment Complex Parking Lots?
According to the Rape, Abuse & Incent National Network (RAINN), the majority of sexual assault incidents occur in or near the individual’s home. In fact, approximately 55% of these incidents happen at or near their home and 15% happen in an open and public place. Another 10% occur in an enclosed area, such as a parking lot or garage.
Anywhere at an apartment complex can quickly become an area where a sexual assault can occur due to negligent security measures. If there are no security cameras or adequate lighting in an apartment parking lot, a resident of this area can quickly become involved in a sexual assault. Vulnerable parties are at risk, which is why apartment complex owners are supposed to do what they can to protect individuals from harm on their property.
Examples of Negligent Security in Parking Lots at Apartment Complexes
If a property owner did not anticipate crime on their property or take measures to ensure the safety of others, a negligent security claim can be brought against a liable party. Here are some of the types of negligent security that occur in apartment complex parking lots every year:
Inadequate Building Security Measures: There should be adequate security measures in and around an apartment complex, which includes parking lots on the property. A criminal can enter into a private area due to lack of security measures such as locks, doors, gates, and window latches. Property owners are expected to patrol their own property and make sure that everything is in working order so that a crime does not occur on the property.
Inadequate Lighting: Especially in parking lots at night, lack of lighting can quickly lead to an unexpected and life-altering attack or assault. This is why there should be sufficient lighting to brighten the parking lot and leave behind no hiding places for criminals. An individual should be able to walk to and from their vehicle in a parking lot and feel safe doing so.
Lack of or Inexperienced Security: Security personnel can make a large parking lot in a busy area much safer. Some factors that can determine if security staff is needed include the size of the location, the clientele, where the parking lot is located, and if there were sexual assaults in the past in this particular area.
Failure to Anticipate Crime: Property owners must keep an eye on recent trends of crime in the area, past incidents on that particular property, and visitors at the complex who may draw criminal activity. If they fail to do so, you could bring a negligent security claim if you have been assaulted in an apartment parking lot.
How a Lawyer Can Help You
If you have fallen victim to a sexual assault in an apartment complex parking lot, the property owner could be liable for the harm that you have endured. Though you can choose to move forward with a claim without legal help, having a lawyer on your side can be extremely beneficial and help you receive the best results in your case. A lawyer may be able to help you with some of the following aspects in your negligent security claim:
- Gather evidence that can prove the owner’s negligence
- Review safety measures and precautions that were taken on the property
- Collect medical records related to your injuries and other damages
You may have limited time to file a negligent security claim against a property owner under California’s statute of limitations. From the time that you are injured, you have two years to bring a case before you are barred from doing so. This is why you should always consider the help of a lawyer as quickly as possible to retain your rights.
Contact a California Apartment Negligent Security Lawyer Today
From parking lots to inside areas, apartment complexes should always be as safe as possible. If you believe that you suffered from an assault due to the negligence of an apartment complex property owner, it is crucial that you understand your legal options moving forward.
At Maison Law, our California apartment negligent security lawyers are here to offer you the protection you need during one of the most difficult experiences of your life. We will help you obtain the damages that are necessary to help you to get back on your feet. Please do not hesitate to contact us for a completely confidential and free case consultation.
