At Maison Law, we offer representation to those who have been hurt in negligent security-related accidents throughout California. When a property owner allows an unsafe condition to linger and it leads to harm, they can be held fully liable for the property damage, injuries, and fatalities that result. Contact us today for the representation that you need, as well as a no-obligation case review.
Signs of Negligent Security in Building Alleys
When you are walking in or around a building, you expect that you will be protected from any harm on the property. Especially at night when there are many dangers and a higher rate of crime, security measures must be taken to secure the safety of those on the premises. Building alleys can pose special dangers, especially when there are very few people in the area.
The following are signs of negligent security in and around building alleys:
Lack of Security Cameras: When security cameras are damaged or lacking in an alleyway at a business, it can spell danger. Many criminals are fully aware that there are no security cameras in a particular area. This means that those in the area could easily become targets for theft, assault, or having their property vandalized. Security cameras are not only a great way to prevent crime from happening, but also to view footage once a crime has occurred.
Lack of Security Guards: Having security guards near or at a property is supposed to help deter crime and keep individuals safe who are utilizing the property. If there is a business with frequent exchanges of cash, there is a higher likelihood that crime will take place there. A criminal could be waiting in a dark alley at a business waiting to commit a robbery or assault, which is why security guards are a good idea at many businesses.
Inexperienced Security Guards: In some cases, security guards may be present at a business but have not been properly trained. If a business owner did not properly vet or train a security guard and an attack or robbery occurs, the property owner could be liable for the results.
Inadequate Lighting: One of the main reasons that crimes occur in back alleyways is due to the fact that darkness can conceal an attacker or a thief. Property owners are responsible for installing adequate lighting in many areas of a property, including the alleys alongside or behind a business. This can deter an attack or ensure that one is caught on camera if it occurs.
No Alarm Systems: An alarm system can alert nearby authorities and emergency services that a crime has happened in an alleyway or another place on a property. If the alarm system is absent or broken, this can delay these vital services that could easily save a life.
Foreseeability in a Negligent Security Claim
In most cases, property owners are not expected to prevent all crimes that could occur on a property. However, they are supposed to take steps to prevent crimes that are completely foreseeable. In any dark alleyway behind or alongside a business, it is foreseeable that a criminal could be lurking, waiting to take advantage of an individual on the property. This is why steps must be taken to protect those who use the property.
When a negligent security claim is brought, the court will look at some of the following aspects:
- Was there a history of violent acts on the property, such as in alleyways?
- What amount of time passed between previous crimes and the current crime on the property?
- What is the crime pattern like in general in that particular area?
- What is the nature of the property and was a crime like this foreseeable?
- Did the property owner recognize a need for security but failed to utilize it?
When it comes to proving negligence in one of these complex claims, it is crucial that you speak with a dedicated and knowledgeable legal advocate.
Damages in Your Alleyway Negligent Security Claim
If you were hurt in an alleyway owned by a particular business, you may have a negligent security claim. This means that you could be eligible for damages that cover property damage, injuries, and even wrongful death if a loved one lost their life in an incident. Some of these damages include the following:
- Medical expenses you have incurred or will incur
- Lost wages or future loss of income
- Pain and suffering
- Therapy costs
- Funeral or burial costs
- Loss of companionship or consortium
- Punitive damages
These damages are meant to help a victim to get back on their feet or a family to move forward financially as they are grieving the loss of a loved one. You have many options under California law in regards to your negligent security claim, which is why you should seek immediate help.
Contact a California Negligent Security Lawyer
In the aftermath of a negligent security accident in California, you may be feeling confused and alone. At Maison Law, we understand how difficult it can be to face a negligent security claim and offer our help and resources to you in your time of need. Our California negligent security lawyers bring experience to your claim and will help you hold all liable parties responsible for the harm that they have caused you. Please contact us for a no-obligation and free case consultation.
