When individuals visit a property, whether it’s an apartment complex, shopping mall, or hotel, they have a reasonable expectation of safety. Unfortunately, inadequate security measures can create opportunities for violent crimes, leaving victims physically injured, emotionally scarred, and financially burdened. Georgia law provides a legal remedy for crime victims through negligent security claims, holding property owners accountable when their failure to provide adequate security contributes to criminal acts.
Here, our Atlanta personal injury attorneys at Ashby Thelen Lowry provide an in-depth look at how Georgia’s laws address negligent security and what crime victims need to know.
What Is Negligent Security?
Negligent security is a legal concept where property owners or managers are held responsible for failing to take reasonable steps to ensure the safety of visitors or tenants on their property. Under Georgia law, property owners have a duty to maintain safe premises and protect individuals from foreseeable harm, including criminal activity.
When a crime occurs due to insufficient security measures, victims may have the right to file a negligent security lawsuit to seek compensation for their injuries and losses.
Examples of Negligent Security
When a crime occurs due to insufficient security measures, victims may have the right to file a negligent security lawsuit to seek compensation for their injuries and losses.
Negligent security can take many forms, including but not limited to:
- Lack of Adequate Lighting: Poorly lit parking lots, stairwells, or pathways can make it easier for criminals to target victims.
- Non-Functioning Security Cameras: Broken or absent surveillance systems hinder crime prevention and investigation.
- Failure to Hire Security Personnel: In high-crime areas, the absence of trained security guards may constitute negligence.
- Broken or Missing Locks: Faulty or absent locks on doors, windows, or gates can lead to unauthorized access and harm.
- Lack of Warning Signs: Property owners may fail to alert visitors or tenants about known risks or previous criminal activity.
The Role of Foreseeability in Georgia Negligent Security Claims
A key factor in negligent security cases is foreseeability—whether the property owner could reasonably anticipate the risk of criminal activity. Georgia courts often consider the property’s crime history or the surrounding area to determine if the owner should have taken extra precautions.
For example, suppose multiple assaults or robberies have occurred at an apartment complex. In that case, the owner may be expected to implement additional security measures, such as hiring guards or installing surveillance systems. Failure to do so could be deemed negligent.
Proving Negligent Security in Georgia
To succeed in a negligent security case, crime victims must prove:
- Duty of Care: The property owner owed a duty to provide reasonable security.
- Breach of Duty: The owner failed to implement adequate security measures.
- Causation: The lack of security directly contributed to the crime and resulting injuries.
- Damages: The victim suffered measurable harm, such as medical bills, lost wages, or emotional distress.
Evidence such as police reports, witness testimony, surveillance footage, and crime statistics can be critical in building a strong case.
How Ashby Thelen Lowry Can Help
Negligent security cases are complex, requiring detailed investigations and a deep understanding of Georgia’s premises liability laws. At Ashby Thelen Lowry, our Atlanta personal injury attorneys are dedicated to helping crime victims seek justice. We work tirelessly to hold negligent property owners accountable and secure the compensation our clients deserve.
If you or a loved one has been a victim of a crime due to negligent security, contact us today for a free and confidential consultation. We are here to help you rebuild your life and pursue the justice you deserve.