In Florida, Negligent Security refers to a property owner’s failure to take reasonable steps to protect guests from criminal acts that could have been anticipated. When landlords, hotels, or shopping centers ignore clear safety risks—such as poor lighting or broken locks—they may be held legally responsible for any injuries that follow.
Legal Framework in Florida
Florida law requires property owners to keep their premises safe. Under Florida Statute §768.0755, businesses owe a duty of care to protect visitors from foreseeable harm.
Victims may file a Negligent Security claim if a preventable attack or assault occurred due to the property owner’s lack of reasonable precautions.
To succeed in such a claim, the injured party must prove:
- The defendant controlled or owned the property.
- The criminal act was reasonably foreseeable.
- Security measures were insufficient or ignored.
- This failure directly caused the injury or damages.
Common Examples of Negligent Security
Negligent behavior can take many forms in Florida settings:
- Dim or broken lighting in parking lots and hallways.
- Unsecured doors, gates, or locks in apartment complexes or hotels.
- No surveillance cameras despite a known crime problem.
- Undertrained or absent security guards at bars or public events.
- Ignoring past incidents without improving security systems.
If, for instance, a store neglects to repair a parking lot light despite prior robberies, and a shopper is attacked, that could be a strong Negligent Security case.
Who Can Be Held Responsible
Potentially liable parties include:
- Property or business owners
- Landlords and management companies
- Hotel and motel operators
- Mall and parking garage owners
- Event organizers and nightclub managers
They are expected to act reasonably once criminal risks are known or predictable. Failure to do so can lead to civil liability for Negligent Security.
Steps to Take After a Security-Related Injury
If you were harmed due to Negligent Security, here’s what you should do immediately:
- Report the incident to the police and get a copy of the report.
- Seek medical care even if the injuries seem minor.
- Take photos or videos of unsafe conditions.
- Collect witness information and contact details.
- Reach out to a Florida personal injury attorney with experience in Negligent Security claims.
Attorneys can review the property’s crime history, inspect security footage, and determine whether the owner breached their duty of care.
Florida Case Spotlight
In a recent Orlando case, a visitor was assaulted at a motel that had ignored multiple break-in warnings.
The jury found the motel’s management negligent for failing to install lighting and security cameras, awarding the plaintiff full compensation for injuries and emotional distress.
Conclusion
Negligent Security law in Florida ensures that property owners take responsibility when poor safety measures allow preventable crimes to occur. Victims have the right to pursue damages for their losses and help make public spaces safer. Acting quickly to document the scene and contact an attorney is key to building a strong case.
