Bossier City Negligent Security Lawyer

Injured Due to Inadequate Security Measures?

If you’ve been the victim of a crime due to inadequate safety measures on someone else’s property, you may have the right to pursue compensation through a negligent security claim. At Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of individuals who were harmed because a property owner or manager failed to provide reasonable security. Our Bossier City negligent security lawyer, we help victims hold negligent parties accountable and seek the justice they deserve.

Contact us today at (318) 633-0186 for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help you seek justice.

What is Negligent Security?

Negligent security is a type of premises liability claim. It arises when a property owner fails to provide adequate safety measures, leading to foreseeable harm such as assault, robbery, or another violent crime. Property owners—whether they manage an apartment complex, shopping center, hotel, or nightclub—have a legal responsibility to ensure their premises are reasonably safe for residents, tenants, customers, and visitors.

If they neglect this duty and someone is injured as a result, they may be liable for damages.

Common Forms of Security

Security measures vary depending on the type of property and its risk factors. Some of the most common forms of security include:

• Security Cameras (CCTV): Video surveillance helps deter criminal activity and can provide evidence if an incident occurs.
• Security Guards: Trained personnel stationed on-site can intervene when threats arise and provide protection to guests.
• Lighting: Adequate lighting in parking lots, stairwells, and entrances is essential to discourage criminal activity.
• Controlled Access Systems: Locked gates, key card entry systems, and intercoms prevent unauthorized access to buildings.
• Alarm Systems: Alarms provide immediate alerts for break-ins, emergencies, or unauthorized entry.
• Fencing and Barriers: These restrict access to private areas and keep intruders out.

Without these safeguards—or when they are poorly maintained—people are more vulnerable to attacks and other crimes.

When is Security Required?

Not every property requires extensive security, but in many situations, property owners are legally obligated to take reasonable precautions to protect guests. Security may be required in the following circumstances:

• High-Crime Areas: If the property is located in a neighborhood with a history of criminal activity, additional security may be necessary.
• Large Public Venues: Concert halls, shopping centers, and stadiums must provide proper crowd control and monitoring.
• Businesses Open Late at Night: Bars, nightclubs, gas stations, and convenience stores face higher risks of crime after dark.
• Residential Complexes: Landlords must protect tenants with locks, lighting, and controlled access.
• Hotels and Motels: Guests should be able to expect safety in their rooms, parking areas, and common spaces.

In short, if crime is foreseeable, then reasonable security should be in place.

Common Examples of Inadequate Security

Negligent security can take many forms. Some common examples include:

• Broken or poorly lit stairwells, hallways, or parking lots
• Inoperative locks or malfunctioning key card systems
• Lack of security cameras or failure to monitor them
• Absence of security guards when they are reasonably necessary
• Failure to respond to prior criminal activity on the property
• Unsecured entrances that allow unauthorized individuals to enter
• Poorly trained or negligent security staff

When these oversights lead to violent crimes such as assaults, robberies, or even shootings, victims may have grounds to file a negligent security claim.

Who is Liable for Negligent Security?

Determining liability in a negligent security case depends on the facts of the incident. The following parties may be held responsible:

• Property Owners: They are primarily responsible for ensuring their premises are reasonably safe.
• Property Managers: If a management company fails to maintain security measures, they may share liability.
• Businesses and Employers: Companies must safeguard employees and customers from foreseeable dangers.
• Security Companies: If a hired security firm fails to perform its duties properly, it may also be liable.

Our Bossier City negligent security attorney can investigate the circumstances of your case to identify all liable parties and maximize your potential recovery.

What Compensation is Available in Negligent Security Claims?

Victims of negligent security may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical bills and future medical expenses
• Lost income and loss of future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress and trauma
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Wrongful death damages (for surviving family members in fatal cases)

At Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law, we fight to ensure our clients receive the full compensation they deserve after such traumatic experiences.

Negligent Security FAQs

What types of crimes are most common in negligent security cases?

Assault, robbery, sexual assault, shootings, and muggings are among the most common crimes associated with inadequate security.

Do I have a case if the criminal was arrested?

Yes. Even if the criminal is caught, you may still bring a civil claim against the property owner or other responsible parties for failing to provide reasonable security.

How long do I have to file a negligent security claim in Louisiana?

Louisiana typically has a one-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including negligent security. This means you must act quickly to preserve your rights.

What evidence is used in negligent security cases?

Evidence may include surveillance footage, witness testimony, crime reports, maintenance records, and proof of prior criminal incidents on the property.

Do I need a lawyer for a negligent security case?

Yes. These cases are complex and require thorough investigation, evidence collection, and strong legal representation. An experienced lawyer can help build a strong claim on your behalf.

Speak with a Bossier City Negligent Security Attorney Today

If you or a loved one has been harmed because a property owner failed to provide adequate security, you should not have to face the financial and emotional consequences alone. At Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law, our experienced Bossier City negligent security lawyer is ready to fight for your rights and hold negligent parties accountable.

Reach out to Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law at (318) 633-0186 for your free, no-obligation consultation.