When you are out and about in the world, you don’t expect to be attacked or injured. You expect that you and your loved ones will be safe when you visit a store, a hotel, or even in the home that you rent. Sometimes, however, a property may be unsafe as a result of the property owner’s neglect. If you or a loved one has been attacked due to inadequate security, you may be entitled to compensation for expenses, lost wages, and more.
What Hazardous Conditions May Occur?
When a property owner provides negligent security, many dangerous conditions can take place. Some examples of these include:
- Faulty or broken locks to homes, offices, or other locations
- Poorly lit areas or shaded areas that obscure activity
- Broken windows
- Security forces that aren’t commensurate with what is needed
Common security measures
There are many common security measures that a property owner could have put in place to discourage and deter criminal activity. An experienced attorney will understand how best to prove that there was a duty to provide care and that the duty was not fulfilled. Here are several common security measures that can protect those who use the property.
- Fencing around the facility or property
- Visible security cameras to deter unscrupulous criminals
- Background checks on employees who interact with patrons, clients, or tenants.
Important Things to Keep in Mind About Negligent Security Cases
Deciding to pursue a negligent security case in Chicago or Aurora has multiple components to it. Some of them are simpler than others. Here are a few considerations as you weigh the choice of whether to litigate or not.
- If you are legally able to file a case
Do you have the legal right to file a negligent security case? You do if you suffered injuries. Other circumstances where you might file but not be injured include acting on behalf of a minor child or as an administrator of an estate. - How long you have to file your case
In general, the Illinois statute of limitations of two years for a personal injury claim applies to negligent security cases. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. If you were under 18 when the injury occurred, and your guardian or parent did not take action, the time is extended. Another instance would be if you were mentally incompetent at the time of the injury. A knowledgeable attorney would be able to advise you about the specifics as they apply to your situation. - How an attorney can assist you
In order to file a lawsuit for negligent security, there is extensive evidence to gather, police investigations to scour, and pleadings to draft and file. An attorney can advise you on how to best approach your case. They’ll understand whether a settlement or court case is ideal for you to receive the best possible outcome.
What Is the Legal Process for Pursuing Negligent Security Cases?
If you decide that you want to start a civil case for negligent security, you begin by filing a complaint and a summons. Once those are filed, the defendant is served a notice of the complaint, and they have a month from the date of receipt to respond. Their response can be an answer or a plead of its sufficiency. The process can be complicated, and it’s not one that you have to face alone.
Seasoned Attorneys at Cullotta Bravo Law Group
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured while on someone else’s property, you want to focus on healing and getting better. A lawyer can assist you with a negligent security case, if the situation merits a case, allowing you to care for yourself or your loved one. The experienced and dedicated attorneys at Cullotta Bravo Law Group have more than 30 years of experience representing individuals in personal injury cases. They bring their earlier experience defending insurance companies to every case and use it to anticipate how best to achieve ideal results for their clients. Their proven track record includes millions of dollars in settlements. Contact us today at 630-7800 or online for a free consultation about your negligent security case. Fees are on a contingent basis.
