We often feel safe in places we visit every day, like our homes, jobs, shopping malls, and even concerts. However, good security steps are an important part of this feeling of safety. When these steps do not work, the results can be very bad. In such an event, you can get legal help from Quinn Law Group, LLC.
The responsibility of security.
The people who own or handle properties are required by law to keep guests fairly safe. In this case, “duty of care” means taking safety precautions that stop known threats. Some of these risks are crime, accidents, and even damage from the property itself being in a bad state.
Take, for example, a shopping mall parking lot that is not well-lit. The fact that there is not enough lighting could be seen as bad security because it makes it more possible for a crime like mugging to happen.
Some examples of inadequate security.
Insufficient security can be caused by a number of things. Here are a few popular ones:
- Poor lighting: Parking lots, walkways, and building exits that do not have enough lighting can make it easier for criminals to operate without being seen and can also hide possible dangers like uneven ground.
- Broken or faulty locks: Doors and gates with broken or faulty locks make it easy for people and animals to break in.
- Lack of security staff: Not having trained security staff makes it harder to handle events when they happen, especially in big buildings or high-risk areas.
- Security cameras that do not work: Security cameras can help find criminals and keep people from committing crimes. Broken cams are pretty much useless.
- Unsecured perimeter: Weak fences, broken gates, or overgrown greenery make it easy for people who are not supposed to be there to get in, which raises the risk of theft or violence.
- Property that is not being taken care of: Uneven paths, broken stairs, and lifts that do not work right all pose safety risks that could cause injuries. The people who own property are responsible for keeping it safe.
The consequences of inadequate security.
Not having enough protection can lead to anything from small problems to terrible events that change people’s lives. Here are some things that could happen:
- Physical injuries: A robbery gone wrong, an attack in a dark place, or a slip and fall on a road that has not been maintained can all cause physical harm. Depending on how bad it is, healing times and hospital bills may be long.
- Psychological trauma: Being a victim of a crime or seeing violence can leave deep mental scars that can lead to anxiety, sadness, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Loss of money: Having your things stolen or your property damaged can cost you a lot of money.
- Loss of security: For some people, feeling afraid in a place where they should feel safe can have long-lasting bad effects on their health.
Take action and prioritize safety.
If you get hurt on someone else’s land because of poor security, you might be able to get paid for your losses. This could include things like hospital bills, lost pay, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
Talking to a lawyer who specializes in premises liability is important to understand your position and find out if you have a case.
Property owners and managers can make the place safer for everyone by putting proper security steps first. Being responsible for security not only keeps you from getting sued but it also makes everyone who uses the property feel safe and healthy.
Remember that being safe should not be a treat; it should be the standard. If you or someone you care about was hurt because of poor security, you should talk to a personal injury lawyer about your rights and legal options.