Property owners and managers have a responsibility to make sure their premises are safe.
There are many locations in Atlanta and throughout Georgia where security measures need to be taken to protect people. These include apartment buildings, malls, office buildings, arenas, hotels, parking lots, and garages. Owners and managers have a responsibility to make sure the premises are safe.
These measures are designed to help prevent people from becoming victims of a crime. Security measures can include lighting, security cameras, alarms, fencing or gates, restricted access, and automatic locks. Another measure used by many venues is security guards.
How security guards help keep premises safe
Security guards can be an important part of a property owner's or manager's security safeguards. Their responsibilities may include:
- Patrolling the premises regularly
- Authorize entrances to the property
- Ensuring that safety procedures are followed
- Watching for potentially dangerous situations and intervening when necessary
- Monitor security cameras
- Respond to alarms
- Assist people when needed
Security guards don't need a special license, but Georgia does require 24 hours of classroom training. The presence of security guards can help deter crime and protect people who are on the premises.
Your legal options after an attack
But what if you are attacked at a property that does not have security guards – or has poorly trained security guards? Can you file a lawsuit against the property owners? Possibly.
As a plaintiff, you need to be able to prove that a negligent party (the property owner or manager) failed to meet a duty of care – which in this case, is their duty to take measures to keep visitors safe.
A key element in these types of cases is whether a crime was "foreseeable." Would a reasonable person conclude that a similar crime was likely to happen? Important considerations could include any previous offenses committed on the property.
The property owner or manager is likely to point to other security measures that were taken aside from security guards, and their lawyer will argue that the duty of care was met.
That's why it's important to consult an attorney familiar with negligent security cases.
What to do if you are attacked on a property
You can take steps to protect your health and your right to seek financial compensation.
- Call the police. They can respond to the scene and provide assistance. In addition, the police can conduct an initial investigation and file an official report of the attack.
- Get medical attention. You may simply feel shaken up and don't think a medical exam is necessary. But you should see a doctor as soon as possible. You could have injuries that have delayed symptoms.
- Take photos. If you can, take photos of the location where the attack occurred. This can help document whether there was adequate security.
- Talk to an attorney. A negligent security lawyer can review the details of your attack and go over your legal options for recovering financial compensation. You can also get answers to your questions.
Since 2008, The Law Office of George S. Johnson, LLC has been helping clients facing complex legal matters get results in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. Learn more about how we can help with your negligent security case. Contact attorney George S. Johnson to schedule a free consultation.