Imagine you visited someone or were on public property, and you got injured. At this stage, there might be multiple parties to blame. Aside from the person who directly hurt the victimized party being held responsible, the property owner will also be held liable for your injuries. This is especially true in a negligent security case in Pennsylvania. You can file for a negligent security claim if you find yourself in a situation as such.
Negligent security claims involve a property owner who fails to properly implement security measures to protect visitors, such as proper training of security guards, not installing surveillance cameras, not having level floors, general dangerous environments, or having insufficient lighting. Proving fault in negligent security cases could be more complex than in a typical premises liability case. To help prove fault, consider speaking with New Jersey Personal Injury attorney Andrew Statmore to take up your case.
According to Pennsylvania’s negligent security claim laws, trying to recover damages involves filing your case within two years from the accident date.
When Should You Hire a Personal Injury Attorney?
Many inadequate security accidents occur as a result of negligence. They involve paperwork, which you might not understand unless you are a legal practitioner. You will have to work with a personal injury lawyer to build a solid case. They can help you claim what you’re owed. More than that, it’s about sending a message.
Most property managers and owners might try to show that they have adequate security measures in place to prevent any harmful occurrence. They might use the incident against you by claiming you yourself contributed to the accident, which will reduce your financial recovery significantly.
Like most states in the US, Pennsylvania uses the comparative negligence rule in a premises liability case. If your level of fault is 50 percent or below, you might receive compensation, but it might not be up to the total amount paid. However, if you are the primary cause of the accident, you might not be able to obtain compensation from the property owner.
Instances of Inadequate Security for Personal Injury Claims?
Some lapses in security measures could lead to severe accidents in Pennsylvania because crimes can happen in almost any setting. These instances include:
- Insufficient security presence or not having any security personnel
- Not having sufficient lighting on the property
- Inadequate surveillance systems or a lack of cameras
- Not removing individuals who are under the influence of alcohol from the property
- If there is no sufficient system for screening employees or visitors
- Not using warning signs
- Unsecured or open exits or entryways
Some locations experience consistent security negligence issues. They include:
- ATM locations
- Parking lots
- Apartment complexes
- Commercial buildings
- Recreational locations, such as amusement parks
- Public transportation hubs like bus and train stations
- Nightlife bars, venues, and dining locations
Types of Damages You Can Sue for Negligent Security Claims
Your claim should specify your situation if you want to file a claim and get compensated. You must include the harm it caused, how it impacted your life and those around you, and how it affects your ability to work. Often, claims payouts are determined by these factors. Other damages that make a difference include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Rehabilitation and medical costs, which include treatment for anxiety, depression, and stress disorder related to the injury sustained
- Lost wages
- Future medical costs
- In case of permanent disabilities, loss of future earnings
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Loss of consortium
- Mental issues
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disfigurement
Bottom Line
Ensure you document as many details as possible, if you can, because this information can be vital to proving negligent or inadequate security. Getting legal help is also of utmost importance. Document response times, surveillance cameras, and lighting quality. Also, take note of the security company’s name and the names of their employees if they have a representative present.
Lynn Martelli is an editor at Readability. She received her MFA in Creative Writing from Antioch University and has worked as an editor for over 10 years. Lynn has edited a wide variety of books, including fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and more. In her free time, Lynn enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her family and friends.
