Negligent Security Lawyers in Buffalo, NY

When you step foot onto someone else’s property, you expect it to be safe and free from dangers—especially those posed by criminal activity. Unfortunately, that doesn’t always happen. When properties lack security, crime is more likely, and innocent victims are often targets.

Property owners in Buffalo and throughout all of New York are required to maintain properties that are safe both from an injury and security perspective. If you were hurt or victimized on an unsecured property, you may be eligible for compensation from the property owner due to their negligence.

The Buffalo negligent security lawyers at Hiller Comerford Injury & Disability Law have the experience and resources to get you the compensation you deserve for the pain and trauma you experienced. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Examples of Negligent Security in Buffalo

When a property lacks security, it can become a hotbed for criminal activity. Some of the most common lapses in security that can lead to criminal acts and victimization of guests and visitors include:

  • Inadequate lighting
  • Broken locks or gates
  • Lack of functioning security cameras
  • Insufficient security personnel
  • Failure to warn of known dangers

Who May Be Liable for Negligent Security?

Establishing and maintain adequate security on a property is one of the most important responsibilities of a property owner. When they fail to uphold this responsibility, they can and should be held liable for victims’ damages. Commonly responsible parties for negligent security include:

  • Apartment complexes and rental properties
  • Hotels and motels
  • Shopping centers and retail establishments
  • Parking garages and lots
  • Nightclubs, bars, and entertainment venues
  • College campuses and schools
  • Office buildings and commercial properties
  • Hospitals and medical facilities

Proving Fault in Negligent Security Cases

Three factors must be proven in negligent security cases to build a successful claim:

  • Duty of care: Property owners and businesses have a legal obligation to provide a reasonably safe environment for visitors and tenants, including implementing adequate security measures when necessary.
    • Example: A hotel has a duty to ensure its parking lot is well-lit and monitored to prevent criminal activity.
  • Breach of duty: When a property owner fails to take reasonable steps to provide security, they may be considered negligent.
    • Example: An apartment complex with a history of break-ins does not repair broken security gates or install adequate lighting, making residents vulnerable to attacks.
  • Causation and damages: The victim must prove that the lack of security directly contributed to their harm and resulted in damages such as medical bills, lost wages, or emotional trauma.
    • Example: A customer is assaulted in a poorly lit parking garage with no security personnel, and they suffer serious injuries, demonstrating that proper security measures could have prevented the attack.

The Consequences of Negligent Security

Too often, the people who pay the biggest consequences for negligent security aren’t the negligent property owners. Instead, it’s their visitors and guests who suffer from serious injuries and traumatic aftermaths, including:

Physical trauma

  • Assault and battery injuries
  • Gunshot and stabbing wounds
  • Sexual assault consequences

Psychological consequences

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Social withdrawal

Compensation After a Negligent Security Incident

The aftermath of a negligent security-related incident can be devastating for a victim and their family. Not only are these incidents often physically damaging, but they can be extremely emotionally harmful as well.

Thankfully, crime victims can often pursue negligent security claims against property owners for many different types of damages, including:

  • Medical expenses
  • Rehabilitation and physical therapy
  • Mental health counseling
  • Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Loss of enjoyment of life

How Our Buffalo Negligent Security Lawyers Can Help

As traumatic as a negligent security incident is, it can be made even worse when the property owner denies responsibility, leaving you facing expensive medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma all on your own. However, having an experienced Buffalo negligent security attorney on your side can put the power back in your hands to get maximum compensation.

When our legal team takes on a new negligent security case, we take the following steps to maximize our clients’ chances of winning at the negotiation table or in the courtroom:

  • Investigate the incident and collect evidence
    • Document the lack of security measures
    • Research similar incidents and prior complaints
    • Consult with security experts
    • Gather witness testimonies
  • Calculate all your damages
  • Negotiate with insurers, so you can focus on recovering from this traumatic incident
  • Fight for you in court if necessary

If You’ve Been Hurt Because of Negligent Security, Contact Us

As a victim of negligent security and a criminal act, you’ve been through enough already. It’s time for you to get a legal advocate on your side who cares about your recovery and wants to hold the negligent party fully accountable. Contact Hiller Comerford Injury & Disability Law today for a free case review.