Joplin Negligent Security Attorney

Let Us Help You Hold Property Owners Accountable for Inadequate Security in Joplin, MO

If you or a loved one has been harmed on someone else's property due to a lack of proper safety measures, you may be entitled to compensation through a negligent security claim. At Bishop & Hayes P.C., our experienced Joplin negligent security lawyers are committed to helping victims hold property owners and managers accountable when they fail to provide reasonable security.

Negligent security falls under premises liability law and often involves physical attacks, thefts, or other criminal activity that could have been prevented with appropriate precautions. If you're unsure whether your experience qualifies for legal action, our team can provide the clarity and guidance you need.

Call (417) 479-3510 or contact us online today to request a free case evaluation with our team.

Common Forms of Security

Effective security measures can deter crime and protect guests, tenants, customers, or employees from preventable harm. Some of the most common forms of property security include:

• Security Cameras: Surveillance systems act as both a deterrent and a means of evidence if a crime occurs.
• Security Guards: On-site personnel help monitor suspicious activity and respond quickly in emergencies.
• Fencing and Controlled Access: Gated areas, key card access, and locked entryways limit unauthorized access.
• Lighting: Adequate lighting in parking lots, hallways, and stairwells improves visibility and discourages criminal acts.
• Alarm Systems: Burglar alarms and panic buttons provide immediate alerts to security breaches or violent situations.

While no system can guarantee absolute safety, the absence or failure of basic security measures may constitute negligence when someone is harmed as a result.

Common Locations with Security

Certain types of properties are more likely to require enhanced security due to higher risks of crime or the nature of the business. Common locations where negligent security issues arise include:

• Apartment Complexes
• Hotels and Motels
• Shopping Centers and Malls
• Bars, Nightclubs, and Restaurants
• Parking Lots and Garages
• Hospitals and Medical Centers
• Schools and College Campuses
• Office Buildings

In high-traffic areas or places with a history of criminal incidents, owners and managers have a heightened duty to implement safety measures. Failure to do so may create liability if a visitor or guest is harmed.

Common Examples of Inadequate Security

Inadequate or negligent security comes in many forms. Some of the most frequent scenarios that lead to legal claims include:

• Broken or Missing Locks: Doors or windows that don't lock properly can give intruders easy access.
• Insufficient Lighting: Poorly lit areas increase the risk of assaults, muggings, or falls.
• Lack of Security Personnel: Properties with a history of criminal activity but no guards or patrols may be found negligent.
• Non-Functional Cameras: Cameras that are broken or not monitored offer little to no protection.
• Failure to Respond to Threats: Ignoring reports of suspicious individuals or previous crimes can lead to predictable future incidents.
• Unsecured Entrances or Exits: Allowing public access to areas meant for residents or employees creates risks.

Victims of crimes such as sexual assault, robbery, physical assault, or even wrongful death due to inadequate security may have the right to pursue damages.

Who is Liable for Inadequate Security?

Liability for negligent security typically falls on the property owner, property manager, or security company responsible for ensuring the premises are safe. To prove liability, your legal team must show that:

1. The property owner or manager owed a duty of care to the victim.
2. That duty was breached by failing to provide reasonable security measures.
3. The breach directly contributed to or allowed a foreseeable criminal act to occur.
4. The victim suffered harm as a result.

At Bishop & Hayes P.C., our Joplin negligent security attorneys will investigate the incident thoroughly. We gather evidence such as surveillance footage, witness statements, crime statistics, and security protocols to build a strong case on your behalf.

FAQs About Negligent Security Claims in Joplin, MO

What kinds of crimes are involved in negligent security cases?

Negligent security claims often stem from crimes such as assault, sexual assault, robbery, kidnapping, or even homicide. These cases argue that the crime could have been prevented or made less likely with appropriate security.

Can I still sue if the attacker was a third party, not the property owner?

Yes. Even though a third party committed the crime, the property owner can still be held liable if their negligence allowed the criminal act to occur. The focus is on the failure to provide adequate safety.

Is there a time limit to file a negligent security lawsuit in Missouri?

Yes. Missouri has a 5-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including those involving negligent security. It’s best to consult a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure your rights are protected.

What compensation can I recover in a negligent security case?

You may be eligible to recover damages for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Therapy or counseling costs
• Property damage

In cases involving fatalities, wrongful death damages may also apply.

How do I prove a property owner knew about the security risk?

Our team will look for past incidents, complaints, crime reports, and internal communications showing the owner had reason to know about potential dangers and failed to act.

Contact us today at (417) 479-3510 for a free consultation and find out how a skilled Joplin negligent security lawyer can help you seek justice.