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An 84-year-old woman is filing a lawsuit against a casino after a 39-year-old man attacked her in the casino’s parking lot. The woman won a significant amount of money in the casino and the man allegedly witnessed her big win. He then followed her into the elevator and forced her into the parking lot and subsequently, into her car, threatening her with death and hitting her on the head as he did. He fled the scene with seven dollars in one-dollar bills and was arrested by police shortly afterwards.
Now, the woman is suing the casino for gross negligence in their security measures. As a casino, there were many video cameras, but none seemed to capture the incident in real time. The woman also states that her cries for help went unanswered by security staff. So, when can you file a lawsuit over negligent security?
The Responsibility of Property Owners
All property owners, including private homeowners and businesses, have a legal responsibility to ensure anyone that enters the property with permission is kept safe. This includes providing reasonable security measures, particularly in areas that have a high potential of criminal activity occurring on or near the property. When someone becomes the victim of a crime due to negligent security, they can file a lawsuit against the property owner. Through a lawsuit, victims can seek damages for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and more.
Common Types of Negligent Security
There are a number of ways property owners may show negligence when it comes to their security measures. Some of the most common types of negligent security include:
- Parking lots and common areas that are not well lit
- A failure to install video cameras or maintain video surveillance systems
- A failure to install fences or gates where appropriate
- Failure to restrict building access to unauthorized individuals
- Failure to install and maintain locks on doors and other restricted areas
- Failing to employ a security company to patrol the grounds
- Failure to conduct background checks on tenants and employees
Any time a property owner acts in any of the above negligent ways, or any other, victims can file a lawsuit over negligent security.
Where Does Negligent Security Occur?
Casinos, such as in the recent story, can face a lawsuit over negligent security. However, there are other types of property that are commonly named in negligent security lawsuits. These properties are as follows:
- College dorms and campuses
- Nightclubs and bars
- Hotels
- Shopping malls
- Amusement parks
- Condominiums and apartments
- Workplaces
Call Our Pennsylvania Premises Liability Lawyers Today
If you have been the victim of a crime due to negligent security on someone else’s property, our Allentown personal injury lawyers can assist with your case. At van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin, we will conduct a full investigation into the negligent security, collect evidence to prove your claim, and help you recover the full damages you deserve. Call us today at (215) 610-3440 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation.
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