How Do Security Failures Enable Criminal Attacks?
Security failures can leave businesses, residential complexes, parking facilities, and public spaces vulnerable to criminal attacks. When security measures are inadequate or improperly maintained, they create opportunities for crimes such as assault, robbery, vandalism, and theft.
These failures may involve broken locks, malfunctioning security cameras, insufficient lighting, or a lack of trained security personnel. Each of these lapses can significantly increase the likelihood of criminal acts occurring on the premises.
At Goodwin Johnston LLC, we understand how serious these incidents can be. As premises liability attorneys, we work closely with individuals who have suffered harm because of negligent security practices.
We help clients throughout Missouri, including Kansas City, St. Joseph, Springfield, Columbia, and St. Louis, Missouri, and Kansas, including Kansas City, Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, Manhattan, Kansas, Wichita, Kansas, and Topeka, Kansas, hold property owners accountable when poor security contributes to their injuries. Our attorneys are prepared to advocate for those harmed by these preventable situations.
How Security Failures Occur
Security failures on properties can arise in many different ways. Property owners, landlords, and businesses must identify risks and address them promptly. When they don’t, the consequences can be severe.
Broken or inadequate locks: Locks that are broken or easily bypassed are one of the most common security failures. When doors, gates, or windows aren’t adequately secured, unauthorized individuals can gain access to restricted areas.
Poor lighting: Poor lighting in parking lots, stairwells, hallways, and entryways can foster an environment that encourages criminal activity. Dim or malfunctioning lights reduce visibility, allowing attackers to approach unnoticed.
Malfunctioning security systems: Security cameras and alarm systems need proper installation and regular maintenance. Malfunctioning or poorly placed cameras may not deter criminal activity or provide reliable evidence.
Lack of security personnel: Some locations, especially large residential complexes or commercial centers, require the presence of trained security guards. Failing to provide adequate security staffing can significantly increase the chances of criminal activity.
Unsecured entry points: Propped-open doors, gates without locks, or gaps in fencing can offer easy access to potential wrongdoers. Regular inspections and proper maintenance of these access points are essential.
How Criminals Exploit Security Failures
Criminals often seek out easy targets with obvious security weaknesses. Properties with visible vulnerabilities are more likely to be targeted.
Crimes of opportunity: Crimes of opportunity occur when a criminal seizes the chance to act because the environment makes it simple and low-risk. A broken lock or poorly lit stairwell can be enough to trigger an attack.
Repeated incidents on neglected properties: Properties with a history of security problems are more likely to experience repeat offenses. A reputation for inadequate protection can make a location a frequent target for theft, assault, vandalism, or other crimes.
Lack of immediate consequences: When alarm systems don’t function, or security cameras fail to record activity, criminals may act without fear of being caught or prosecuted.
Property owners’ duty to provide security: Under premises liability laws, property owners must provide reasonable protection to visitors and tenants. This responsibility includes taking steps to prevent foreseeable criminal acts.
Foreseeability of criminal activity: If a property is located in an area with known criminal activity or if similar crimes have occurred on the premises, the property owner is expected to take reasonable precautions. Failing to do so may result in liability if someone is harmed.
Reasonable security measures: Property owners aren’t expected to stop all crimes, but they’re required to take reasonable security steps based on the type of property and its location. These measures may include installing lighting, securing entry points, hiring security staff, and maintaining alarm systems.
Failure to act on known issues: When property owners are aware of broken locks, darkened pathways, or past incidents but fail to correct these problems, their negligence can make them responsible for any resulting harm.
Real-Life Examples of Security Failures
Security failures come in various forms, each with the potential to cause serious harm to victims.
Assaults in poorly lit parking garages: Parking garages that lack sufficient lighting and security patrols can become hotspots for violent crimes. Individuals may be attacked while walking to or from their vehicles, especially at night.
Burglaries in apartment complexes: Apartment complexes with broken gates, malfunctioning security cameras, or unmonitored entrances may invite burglaries. Residents who rely on these protections can be seriously harmed when those systems fail.
Attacks in retail shopping centers: Retail centers must provide basic security to protect shoppers and employees. When businesses ignore security lapses, visitors may be exposed to preventable criminal attacks.
How Victims Can Hold Property Owners Accountable
Victims harmed due to security failures have legal options to pursue compensation. Working with a premises liability attorney can help clarify whether a property owner’s negligence contributed to the attack.
Premises liability claims: A premises liability claim can be filed when a property owner fails to provide reasonable security, leading to someone’s injury. These claims may seek damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
Establishing negligence: To hold a property owner accountable for negligent security, certain legal elements must be proven. To succeed in a premises liability claim, the victim typically must show that:
The property owner had a duty to provide reasonable security.
The owner failed to take reasonable steps to secure the premises.
This failure directly led to the victim’s injury.
The victim suffered actual harm as a result.
When all these elements are present, the injured party may have grounds to pursue compensation through a premises liability claim.
Gathering Evidence
Building a strong premises liability claim requires solid evidence that supports the victim’s account and highlights the property owner's negligence. Evidence that can strengthen a premises liability claim includes:
Security footage (if available)
Witness statements
Incident reports
Maintenance records showing ignored repairs
Crime statistics for the area
Collecting this evidence promptly can make a significant difference in the outcome of the case. An experienced premises liability attorney at Goodwin Johnston LLC can assist with gathering and preserving critical evidence for these cases.
Locations Prone to Security Failures
Some types of properties are more prone to security failures that put visitors at risk of criminal harm. Common locations where these lapses often occur include:
Apartment Complexes
Security failures in apartment complexes can significantly increase risks for residents and visitors.
Broken gates
Unlocked building entrances
Inadequate lighting in hallways and parking areas
Addressing these issues is critical to confirming a safe living environment for all tenants.
Commercial Buildings
Commercial properties often face security challenges that can compromise the safety of employees and visitors.
Malfunctioning security cameras
Unmonitored entrances
Failure to provide on-site security personnel
Implementing robust security protocols in commercial spaces is essential to protect occupants.
Parking Garages
Parking garages are particularly vulnerable to security lapses due to their design and limited oversight.
Poor visibility
Infrequent security patrols
Broken or missing surveillance equipment
Enhancing security measures in parking garages can significantly reduce the risk of criminal activity.
Hotels and Motels
Hotels and motels must prioritize guest safety to prevent vulnerabilities in their facilities.
Faulty door locks
Lack of keycard-controlled access
Insufficient guest protection in common areas
Strengthening security systems in hospitality settings confirms a safer experience for guests.
Public Parks and Recreational Facilities
Public parks and recreational areas can become unsafe without proper security infrastructure.
Inadequate lighting
Missing security cameras
Unsecured access points
Identifying these vulnerable locations can help victims recognize when a property owner may have failed in their duty to provide adequate security.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions that may be helpful for your situation.
What Should I Do if I Am Attacked on Someone Else’s Property?
If you’re attacked on another person’s property, your first step should be to contact local law enforcement and seek medical attention. Document the scene, take photographs if possible, and collect contact information from any witnesses. Contacting a premises liability attorney can help you evaluate whether the property owner may be held accountable.
How Can a Premises Liability Attorney Help in a Security Failure Case?
A premises liability attorney can investigate the security conditions on the property, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a claim that demonstrates how the security failure contributed to your injury. The attorneys at Goodwin Johnston LLC work closely with clients to pursue fair compensation when they have been harmed due to negligent security.
Is the Property Owner Always Liable for Criminal Attacks?
Property owners aren’t automatically liable for every criminal act that occurs on their premises. Liability depends on whether the attack was foreseeable and whether the property owner took reasonable security precautions. A premises liability attorney can help determine if you have a valid claim based on the circumstances.
What Types of Compensation Can I Seek?
Victims of negligent security may be able to pursue compensation for:
Medical expenses
Lost income
Emotional trauma
Physical pain
Rehabilitation costs
The specific damages available depend on the severity of the injury and the impact on the victim’s life.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim in Missouri?
In Missouri, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally five years from the date of the incident. It’s important to consult with a premises liability attorney as soon as possible to avoid missing critical deadlines.
Can Previous Crimes on the Property Affect My Case?
Yes, evidence of previous crimes on the property can strengthen your case. It can show that the property owner should have been aware of the risk and taken additional security measures.
What if the Property Had Some Security Measures in Place?
Even if some security was provided, a property owner may still be liable if those measures were insufficient or improperly maintained. For example, a security camera that didn’t work at the time of the incident may not be considered adequate protection.
Can I Still File a Claim if I Was Trespassing?
Generally, property owners owe a lesser duty to trespassers than to invited guests or tenants. However, exceptions may apply, particularly in cases involving children or known hazards. A premises liability attorney can review your situation to assess whether legal options may still be available.
Contact Us Today
If you or someone you care about has been harmed due to a security failure, the attorneys at Goodwin Johnston LLC are ready to assist you. Serving clients throughout Missouri, including Kansas City, St. Joseph, Springfield, Columbia, and St. Louis, Missouri, and Kansas, including Kansas City, Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, Manhattan, Kansas, Wichita, Kansas, and Topeka, Kansas. Call today to schedule a consultation.
