Can Negligent Security Give You Grounds for Compensation?

 Posted on August 05, 2024 in Personal Injury

Springfield, IL and its surrounding area are home to thousands of businesses, multiple higher-education institutions, various government-owned properties, and commercial and residential rental spaces. The parties responsible for all these places must keep them safe for customers, visitors, residents, and other invited guests.

While things like repairing broken handrails and ensuring adequate lighting meet these requirements, proper security is also needed. If negligent security contributes to the commission of a crime that injures you, you may qualify to file a premises liability claim. Holding the negligent party accountable can be challenging unless you have experienced legal representation. When you work with a personal injury attorney from Kanoski Bresney, we will fight to see that you get the most possible compensation for your injuries and other related losses.

What Is Negligent Security?

Under the Illinois Premises Liability Act, property owners and occupiers, such as businesses that rent or lease the property, are required to use reasonable care to protect the safety of others who are legally on their premises. If the responsible party does not meet their obligations and an injury occurs, the injured person may be able to obtain compensation.

Individual locations need different security measures. Bars, restaurants, nightclubs, parking garages, and other facilities may have higher risks for crimes, such as assaults, robberies, fights, and sexual attacks. With higher risks, stronger security is often needed. This responsibility may also extend to the sidewalks and parking lots of these establishments. Appropriate security to help prevent these kinds of anticipated crimes include:

• Adequate lighting

• Security guards or "bouncers"

• Strong locks

• Weapons detection systems

The presence of video surveillance cameras may also make criminals think twice before committing a crime. Landlords and business owners who knowingly fail to provide the right kind of security can be held liable to pay damages for victims of a violent attack.

In addition to physical injuries, victims may also experience pain and suffering, emotional or mental health issues, and other related losses. If negligent security is a factor in your case, you deserve compensation. You may get money for your medical bills, lost wages, and other qualifying losses.

How Do You Know Your Situation Qualifies for a Negligent Security Premises Liability Claim?

Proving that negligent security contributed to your injuries often takes an experienced attorney’s legal knowledge and a full investigation. If you think you qualify to file this type of claim, our firm offers free case evaluations. We will discuss your case and give you detailed information.

There are several potential challenges that you would need to face if you choose to handle your case alone, such as:

• Proving that the incident could have been reasonably anticipated and prevented

• Showing that the responsible party knew about the negligent security yet failed to address it

• Determining all at-fault parties and their degree of liability

• Gathering strong evidence to support your claim

• Insurance companies denying your claim or offering a low settlement amount

Many victims do not have the resources to overcome these challenges. When you work with Kanoski Bresney, we will handle these and other complexities and fight to help you recover maximum compensation for your losses.

Request Your Free Consultation With Our Champaign, IL Premises Liability Lawyers

Negligent security can increase your chance of becoming a victim of a violent act, and you deserve compensation. Kanoski Bresney will support you throughout your claims process and work with you to obtain a maximum payout. We have eight offices in Central Illinois, and we do not charge any fees upfront.

Contact us 24/7 at 888-826-8682 to schedule your free consultation with one of our experienced Decatur, IL premises liability attorneys today.