Can You Sue an Apartment for Negligent Security?

If the property manager or the landlord of an apartment complex fails to provide adequate security measures to prevent you from becoming a victim of a crime, you may be entitled to recover compensation by suing them.

Just like many other spaces where you expect to be safe from harm, an apartment complex should have security measures in place. A negligent security lawyer from our firm can help you seek justice and compensation.

Can You File a Negligent Security Lawsuit Against an Apartment Complex?

Just like many other commercial and residential properties, an apartment complex has a duty to provide for the security of its tenants. If your apartment complex fails to provide adequate security measures and you fall victim to a crime because of that lack of security, you can hold the property manager or the landlord accountable and take action to recover compensation for your injuries or losses.

Common security measures at apartments can often include:

• Lockable doors and gates
• Security cameras
• Security guards
• Alarms
• Intercoms

The measures in place are typically commensurate with the level of criminal activity in the area. Unfortunately, some property managers and landlords neglect to provide enough security to save money. That decision puts tenants at risk and increases their liability when a crime does occur.

What Other Types of Properties Can Be Held Accountable for Negligent Security?

There are many types of properties, both commercial and residential, that can be held liable for the lack of security they provide. Most businesses have a duty to provide reasonable security measures to prevent criminal activity such as battery, rape, murder, mass shootings, and robbery.

Properties that you can hold liable include:

• Hotels
• Restaurants
• Bars
• Theme parks
• Movie theater
• Malls
• Universities
• Sporting events
• Apartments

Property owners need to provide for the security of their guests or tenants. A negligent security lawyer from our firm can explain your legal options when you hire us.

What Is a Negligent Security Case?

Negligent security cases arise when a property owner fails to put adequate security measures in place to provide for the safety of their customers or tenants.

If you get hurt or suffer financial losses because of a crime at an apartment where there is inadequate security, you could have a negligent security case. You may be able to file a premises liability lawsuit against the property owner to recover damages. However, you must be able to prove that your injuries or losses were the result of negligence and that the property owner did not fulfill their duty to keep their property reasonably safe.

What Damages Can You Recover From a Negligent Security Lawsuit Against an Apartment?

A negligent security lawsuit is a civil action you can take to recover compensation for damages you suffer because of a criminal act. A lawyer can determine which damages apply to your case and calculate the value of your claim so we can seek a fair amount of compensation to cover your losses.

Damages you could recover include:

• Lost income
• Medical bills
• Property damage
• Childcare
• Home modifications
• Physical therapy and counseling
• Household services
• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment

In addition, you may also be able to recover wrongful death damages that cover funeral expenses, medical bills, and lost earning capacity if you lost someone you love to a criminal act because of negligent security. Our firm offers you and your family our sincerest condolences, and we want to handle your case so you can take the time you need to grieve.

How Can a Lawyer Build Your Negligent Security Case?

Negligent security cases can be tricky. You must be able to prove that the apartment property manager or landlord was negligent and that your injuries and financial losses are a result of that negligence.

That’s why we encourage you to consult with a lawyer who has experience handling negligent security cases and understands premises liability law.

A negligent security lawyer can:

• Investigate your case to determine liability
• Gather evidence to back up your claim, including the police report and your medical records
• Calculate the value of your claim and send a demand letter to the liable party and their insurer
• Negotiate a fair settlement with the liable party and the insurer on your behalf
• Prepare and file all paperwork for you
• Provide you with regular updates on the status of your case
• File a lawsuit and represent you in court if necessary

The legal process is complex, but we will guide you through it and help you understand it. We can build a solid case for you so you can receive the compensation and justice you deserve.

How Long Do You Have to File a Lawsuit in Florida?

You only have a short time under Florida law to file a personal injury because of negligent security. According to Florida Statutes § 95.11, you have two years to file before the statute of limitations runs out. If the deadline in your case expires before you file a lawsuit, you will be unable to recover damages through the legal process.

Our law firm will work to meet all deadlines in your case, including the statute of limitations, so you don’t lose your right to file a lawsuit.

Learn More About Suing an Apartment for Negligent Security Today

You have the right to feel safe at an apartment complex. It’s the responsibility of the property manager or landlord to provide proper security measures. If they negligently fail to provide that security, you can hold them accountable and pursue compensation.

At Dismuke Law, we have a passion for holding negligent parties accountable. To learn more about suing an apartment for negligent security, or to schedule a free consultation to Ask Dave about your case, please contact us today.