Business owners have a legal obligation to maintain a safe environment for their customers and visitors. This includes implementing reasonable security measures to prevent foreseeable criminal activity. When businesses fail to fulfill this duty and negligence leads to a violent criminal incident, victims and their families might be entitled to compensation.
Bereaved loved ones are seeking to hold Dollar General accountable for the lack of security at a Duval County location where a racially motivated triple-murder occurred. The killer had made stops at two other discount stores, but was deterred by the security at each establishment. According to the plaintiffs’ complaint, a company was supposed to be monitoring cameras at the site of the tragedy, but was not doing so when the murders occurred.
Common problems that might give rise to premises liability from crime victims or their surviving family members include the following:
- Inadequate lighting — Poorly lit parking lots, stairwells or other areas on business premises can create opportunities for criminal activity, such as assaults, robberies, or carjackings. Business owners have a duty to ensure sufficient lighting to deter criminal behavior and enhance the safety of their patrons.
- Lack of security personnel — Stores operating in high-crime areas should consider employing security personnel to protect shoppers. Failure to provide adequate security personnel, such as security guards or surveillance systems, can leave patrons vulnerable to harm.
- Negligent security measures — Even if security personnel are present, if they fail to take appropriate actions or if security systems are malfunctioning or improperly maintained, business owners may be held liable for resulting injuries. This includes situations where security alarms, locks, or surveillance cameras are not functioning as intended, as plaintiffs in the Dollar General case allege.
- Failure to warn of known dangers — If a business is aware of specific risks or dangers on its premises, such as recent criminal activity in the area, it has a duty to warn patrons or take steps to mitigate those risks. Failure to do so may constitute negligence and result in liability for any harm caused.
Victims of crimes occurring on business premises have the right to seek compensation for their injuries through premises liability claims. Compensation in these cases help cover medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering and other damages resulting from the incident.
The experienced premises liability attorneys at Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh in Sarasota have a proven track record of representing Floridians in claims against businesses for injuries sustained due to inadequate security measures. If you've been injured due to poor security on business premises, please call 941-954-1234 or contact us online for a free consultation.