Security Matters And Liability For Third-Party Attacks
Following an injury sustained in a third-party attack on someone else’s property, the question of liability could arise. Claims could hinge on the legal duty of property owners and managers to provide a reasonably safe environment.
It is important to know that when a person or business has a duty of care and they fail to take proper security measures, and someone is harmed as a result, they may be held responsible. Have a conversation with a Baltimore personal injury lawyer to have the details of your situation reviewed.
What Is Third-Party Responsibility?
Third-party responsibility in the context of negligent security refers to the legal liability of a property owner or occupier. Specifically, who is responsible when a visitor is harmed by the actions of someone not directly affiliated with the property.
For example, if a patron is assaulted in the parking lot of a nightclub, the attacker is the third party. But if the incident occurred because the property lacked adequate lighting or security personnel, the nightclub owner may be held legally accountable for failing to prevent foreseeable harm.
Premises liability for inadequate security arises in a range of places. Some cases are connected to bars and nightclubs, where alcohol consumption and large crowds can lead to a heightened risk of violent incidents. In other situations, individuals hurt on apartment complex properties have asserted that landlords failed to install or maintain proper lighting and surveillance systems.
The definition of adequate security depends on the specific circumstances and what is considered reasonable under the law. Property owners are not expected to prevent every possible crime, but they are required to take reasonable steps to protect visitors, especially when crime in the area is foreseeable.
Some examples of security measures that may be expected include:
- Working locks on doors and windows
- Sufficient lighting in parking lots and hallways
- Functional security cameras
- On-site security personnel
- Access control systems (like key cards or intercoms)
- Proper background checks on employees or tenants
When property owners ignore complaints about security problems or do not respond to known criminal activity on or near their premises, they may be seen as negligent.
Who Can Be Held Accountable?
In negligent security cases, several parties may be held liable. This could include property owners who fail to implement appropriate safety measures or management companies who do not perform their day-to-day responsibilities when it comes to security.
Victims of third-party attacks may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma. However, proving negligent security requires careful investigation and legal strategy.
After being injured due to a violent incident on someone else’s Maryland property, speak with a Baltimore personal injury lawyer. An experienced attorney can assess the circumstances, identify all responsible parties, and work to secure the compensation and accountability you deserve. Your safety matters, and so does holding negligent parties responsible.
How can you hold someone accountable after they skimped on reasonable safety precautions? Have a conversation with the attorney at Iamele & Iamele, LLP to explore your options. Contact us to book a confidential appointment.
