When you make the decision to attend a movie, you expect to have an enjoyable time and experience something fresh and exciting. It may never cross your mind that there could be dangers lurking in a movie theater, which is supposed to be an environment full of fun. When there is not adequate security in a movie theater, a crime could occur within seconds and affect your life in many ways. This is especially true if the crime ends in harm and injuries.
At Maison Law, we offer representation to victims of negligent security at movie theaters in California. California law states that property owners of movie theaters and other places where customers appear take reasonable measures to keep these customers safe from acts of theft, attacks, and assaults. If you have been hurt due to negligent security and a movie theater’s inaction, it is crucial that you contact us for a free and no-obligation case consultation to get started on a claim.
Types of Negligent Security at a Movie Theater
Movie theaters are known for being dark and private in some areas, but this does not mean that they should be free of security matters. Every case is unique but there are many circumstances where patrons at a movie theater could fall victim to an act of thievery or become assaulted inside the movie theater, a parking lot, or even a bathroom on the premises.
A property owner must do the following things to ensure that the movie theater has adequate security measures in place:
- Provide adequate lighting inside the movie theater and out in the parking lot to deter criminal activity
- Ensure that all locks and alarm systems are in working order
- Warn customers of foreseeable crime risks in the area
- Install security cameras in areas that are appropriate
- Respond to safety-related incidents in a timely manner
Sometimes, where the movie theater is located can have a big impact on the security measures that a property owner will take. If there is a low crime rate in the area, for instance, there may be less of a burden for the owner and company that owns the theater to provide vast amounts of security. On the other hand, if the movie theater is located in a high-crime area in the city, the theater will have to install higher safety measures to keep patrons safe from harmful events.
Proving Negligent Security at a Movie Theater
If you were attacked or robbed at a movie theater, there are some elements that you will have to prove if you want to hold the property owner or company liable for your injuries. These include the following:
Duty of Care: If you are a customer on a movie theater property, you had the right to be there. This means that the movie theater is supposed to take reasonable security measures to ensure that your safety is kept in mind on its property.
Breached Duty: You have to be able to show that the theater did not provide adequate security, such as installing bright lighting in necessary areas or having security guards inside and outside the area.
Causation: If the theater did not provide adequate security, you will also need to show that this lack of security caused your injuries. If you were attacked in a dark parking lot due to lack of lighting, this is all the reason to bring a negligent security claim against the movie theater.
Damages: You must also show that you sustained verifiable damages due to the incident. Were you attacked at the movie theater and it led to injuries and property damage? If so, you could receive financial support for your losses in a claim.
Damages in a Negligent Security Claim Against a Movie Theater
Regardless of your injuries, you as an injured patron of a movie theater have the right to bring a claim for all damages caused by an act of negligent security. The damages that you receive will vary from one case to the next and will depend upon the circumstances of the incident, the extent of your injuries, and the emotional impact that they have on you. You may be able to recover for some of the following damages in your claim:
- Medical expenses
- Future medical care
- Lost income
- Future loss of earnings due to being unable to work
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of companionship
- Punitive damages
The unique details that make up your claim are important, which is why it is beneficial to start working with a lawyer who understands the ins and outs of the legal system and how to help you.
Contact Maison Law After Negligent Security at a Movie Theater
In the aftermath of a negligent security-related incident at a California movie theater, you may be left with more questions than answers. Having reliable legal support on your side can make all the difference in your claim. At Maison Law, our California negligent security lawyers understand how difficult it can be to get back on your feet and will work tirelessly with you toward the most optimal results in your case. Contact us today for a free case consultation.
