Negligent Security: Protecting Your Rights When Safety Fails

We place trust in establishments to ensure our safety. Whether it’s a night out at a local club, a stay in a hotel, or simply shopping at a mall, we expect to be protected from foreseeable harm. But what happens when these establishments fail to uphold their end of the bargain? Enter the realm of “negligent security.” This arises when an entity does not take the necessary precautions to safeguard its patrons, leading to preventable injuries or harm. If you’ve been a victim under such circumstances, understanding your rights and when to seek legal representation is crucial.

Let’s take a closer look at negligent security and when to seek a lawyer near Las Cruces, New Mexico.

What is Negligent Security? What Does It Look Like?

Negligent security is when a property owner or manager fails to provide adequate security measures to protect their guests, tenants, or employees from harm. This can lead to serious injuries or even death, and in some cases, the victim may be able to sue the property owner for damages.

Here are some common examples of negligent security:

Lack of security guards or inadequate security guard training. If a property owner or manager has a history of crime on their property and they do not provide adequate security, they may be liable for any injuries that occur. For example, a bar that has a history of fights and assaults but does not have any security guards could be held liable if someone is injured in a fight.
Broken or malfunctioning security cameras. Security cameras are an important deterrent to crime, and if they are broken or malfunctioning, they can create a situation where criminals are more likely to target property. For example, a parking garage that has broken security cameras may be liable if someone is robbed in the garage.
Inadequate lighting. Well-lit areas are less likely to be targeted by criminals, so if a property is poorly lit, it could be considered negligent security. For example, an apartment complex with poorly lit parking lots and walkways may be liable if someone is mugged in the parking lot.
Open doors and gates. Open doors and gates provide easy access for criminals, so it is important for property owners to keep them closed and locked when they are not in use. For example, a store that leaves its doors unlocked after closing could be liable if someone is robbed inside the store.
Faulty locks. If a property owner or manager provides locks for their guests, tenants, or employees, they are responsible for making sure that the locks are in good working order. If a lock is faulty and someone is injured; as a result, the property owner or manager could be held liable.

When to Seek a Lawyer for Negligent Security Cases near Las Cruces, New Mexico

If you believe you’ve been a victim of negligent security, it’s vital to consult with an attorney as soon as possible. Here’s why and when you should consider seeking legal advice:

Immediate Aftermath of an Incident: The moments following an injury or attack can be confusing and traumatic. Before making any statements or accepting any settlements, it’s important to consult with a negligent security lawyer to ensure your rights are protected.
Evidence Collection: A negligent security attorney can help gather the necessary evidence to support your claim. This includes surveillance footage, witness testimonies, and a history of prior incidents at the property.
Understanding Your Rights: Not everyone is aware of their rights in situations of negligent security. A negligent security lawyer can guide you on what you’re entitled to and how best to pursue your claim.
Negotiation with Responsible Parties: Often, property owners or managers will try to avoid taking full responsibility or might offer a settlement that doesn’t cover the full extent of your damages. An experienced negligent security lawyer can negotiate on your behalf, ensuring that you receive fair compensation.
Statute of Limitations: There’s a limited timeframe within which you can file a claim for negligent security, and this varies by state. A negligent security attorney can advise you on these timeframes and ensure that your case is filed timely.
Complexity of the Law: Negligent security cases often fall under premises liability law, which can be intricate. Navigating this on your own can be challenging. A negligent security lawyer will understand the nuances and can present your case effectively.

If you’ve experienced harm due to inadequate security measures, it’s not just about seeking compensation. It’s about holding establishments accountable for their responsibilities and ensuring that others don’t suffer in similar ways. Therefore, seeking a negligent security lawyer isn’t just beneficial for you, but for the broader community, emphasizing the importance of safety and accountability.

Have you been harmed due to the failure of a property or establishment to maintain proper safety precautions? Reach out to The Law Offices of Kenneth G. Egan to request a free consultation today. Or, give us a call at (575) 532-2222. We are proud to serve the Las Cruces, New Mexico community, as well as the surrounding areas, including Radium Springs, Fort Selden, Vado, La Mesa, Leasburg, and more.