You can never truly anticipate when you may become the target of a violent crime. However, most places you should be able to go without fear of harm. Places like grocery store parking lots and apartment buildings should be secure. Even places where you want to go to hang out and have a good time such as a dance club or bar should be safe and secure for their patrons.
If you suffered an injury due to inadequate security measures on a commercial property, you should speak with our experienced premises liability attorneys about your situation. Our Tampa negligent security lawyers can help you determine whether you have a valid case.
What is a Negligent Security Claim?
A negligent security claim is a type of premises liability case. Commercial property owners have a responsibility to maintain their premises and ensure it is reasonably safe for visitors. This includes protecting guests from potential criminal acts.
If a property owner fails to provide adequate security to prevent a criminal attack, you can file a lawsuit for any injuries you suffered due to the incident. Our skilled attorneys can help you file a negligent security claim against a careless property owner.
Common Examples of Insufficient Security Measures
All businesses should have standard security measures in place. Unfortunately, many companies in the area do not. Our lawyers have seen many cases involving insufficient security measures such as:
- Inadequate lighting in parking lots
- Lack of surveillance cameras
- Broken gates or fences
- Lack of security guards
- Untrained or inattentive security guards
- Faulty alarm systems
If any of these issues played a role in your attack, you should seek help from our inadequate security lawyers. We can help you find evidence of the lack of security measures.
What are the Required Security Measures for Convenience Businesses in Tampa?
Business owners do not have a duty to protect visitors from all harm brought on by third parties. However, they are responsible for protecting visitors from “foreseeable” attacks. Additionally, these individuals must follow the state security laws for businesses.
Florida Statutes § 812.173 states that every convenience business must have specific security measures in place. Companies must have all of the following safety features and policies:
- A security camera system capable of recording video and images
- A safe to restrict access to cash
- A silent alarm system connecting to a law enforcement agency or security firm
- A well-lit parking lot
- A notice visible to all visitors to the place of business stating that the cash register contains $50 or less at all times
- A strict cash management policy that limits the amount of cash the business has on hand after 11 p.m.
These businesses are also prohibited from having tinted windows. These safety measures represent the threshold needed for business owners to protect themselves from liability in the event of a violent act. If you were attacked in a convenience store that did not have these safety measures set up, you should talk to our knowledgeable attorneys in the area about your right to file a negligent security lawsuit.
Is it Necessary to Hire a Lawyer for a Lawsuit?
There is no legal requirement for injured parties to hire an attorney before filing a personal injury case. However, we strongly recommend that you reach out to Hancock Injury Attorneys before taking legal action. A consultation is completely free and can give you a better understanding of what will happen in your case.
Negligent security cases are often challenging to prove. You must establish that the crime was preventable and would not have happened if the negligent property owner had taken adequate security measures to protect you. Our dedicated lawyers have handled numerous injury claims related to inadequate security on commercial properties.
We have the resources to focus on your case while you take the time you need to heal. Without an attorney by your side, you may miss important deadlines or leave out crucial pieces of evidence. Hiring a lawyer can give you a much better chance of success.
Schedule a Consultation With a Tampa Negligent Security Attorney
If you or someone you love was attacked by a third party while on a commercial property, you may have a strong liability claim. With the help of our Tampa negligent security lawyers, you can hold the other party accountable and recover compensation for your losses. Contact Hancock Injury Attorneys today to set up your free initial consultation.