Property owners, both business owners and homeowners, have a legal duty to ensure a safe environment for those lawfully on their premises. This encompasses both proper maintenance and adequate security. Failure to uphold these responsibilities can lead to serious injuries, and if negligence is a factor, you may be entitled to compensation.

Negligent Maintenance: Ensuring Safe Physical Conditions

Negligent maintenance occurs when a property owner fails to address hazards that could cause accidents. Common examples include:

Slip and Fall Accidents:

• Failure to clear ice and snow from sidewalks and driveways.
• Cracked or uneven sidewalks and walkways.
• Debris or spills left unattended.
• Inadequate lighting in parking lots, hallways, and stairwells.

Structural Hazards:

• Unstable porches and decks.
• Hanging or falling tree limbs.
• Improperly maintained swimming pools and diving boards.
• Dangerous stairways and railings.

General Neglect:

• Failure to remediate known hazards.

These incidents can occur in various locations, including homes, apartments, stores, restaurants, malls, and other public facilities.

Negligent Security: Preventing Criminal Activity

Property owners are also responsible for providing reasonable security measures to protect visitors from foreseeable criminal acts. Negligent security arises when a lack of adequate precautions leads to injuries. Examples of inadequate security include:

• Insufficient lighting.
• Lack of security personnel or cameras.
• Broken or malfunctioning locks and security systems.
• Poorly designed building layouts.
• Failure to address known security risks.

Negligent security incidents can occur in:

• Malls and shopping centers
• Apartment complexes
• Hospitals
• Sporting event centers
• Parking lots
• Amusement parks
• Swimming pools
• Schools
• Airports
• Grocery stores
• Bars and nightclubs
• Hotels and Motels
• Rental homes and condos

Victims of negligent security may experience:

• Robbery
• Assault
• Shooting or stabbing
• Rape
• Emotional harm
• Threats and intimidation
• Death

Seeking Compensation for Your Injuries

If you’ve been injured because of negligent property maintenance or security, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

At Mark | Lavigne, LLC, our highly qualified team will listen to you. We are dedicated to all of our clients. Don’t hesitate. Contact us today to speak to an attorney. To discuss your case with us call 908-460-8996 or contact us online for your free confidential consultation today.