Georgia Negligent Security Lawyers Holding Property Owners and Businesses Accountable
Our attorneys can help you pursue justice through a negligent security claim
Negligent security refers to the failure of a property owner to implement reasonable safety measures, which leads to criminal acts such as assaults, thefts, or murders.
If you or a family member was attacked on someone else’s property, let a Georgia negligent security lawyer demand justice and get you fair compensation for your damages. As “Georgia’s Power Law Firm,” Gary Martin Hays & Associates, P.C. has helped personal injury victims and their families recover more than $1 billion.
See how an experienced attorney can help you with your negligent security claim. Contact us today for your free case evaluation. We serve all of Georgia from offices in Duluth, Atlanta, Lithonia, College Park, Gainesville, and Marietta.
Get money for preventable injuries in Georgia
Negligent security claims can be extremely challenging and take a lot of effort, which is why you need an attorney with experience handling these types of cases in Atlanta and communities throughout Georgia. Our dedicated legal team knows exactly how to handle these complex claims.
After all, founding attorney Gary Martin Hays wrote the #1 best-selling book titled “The Authority on Inadequate/Negligent Security Claims in Georgia.” Let our law firm help you get the compensation you deserve.
“I have loved working with this team, and they got me everything I could think of and more from a terrible accident that rocked my family.” - Richonna Harrison
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FAQ About Negligent Security Claims in Georgia
- What is negligent security?
- What are examples of negligent security?
- What are the types of crimes linked to negligent security?
- What is the negligence per se law in Georgia?
- How do I know if I have a negligent security case?
- How can a lawyer help me with my negligent security claim?
- Where do negligent security incidents occur?
- Can I still sue the property owner if the crime was committed by a third party?
- What are types of failures that may be considered negligent or inadequate security?
- What types of compensation can I recover in a negligent security case?
- How long do I have to file a negligent security claim in Georgia?
- Are property owners and businesses liable for injuries to trespassers?
- What role does prior criminal activity play in a negligent security case?
- What should I do immediately after getting hurt on someone else’s property in Georgia?
- What are the benefits of hiring a Georgia negligent security lawyer?
What is negligent security?
Inadequate or negligent security is a form of premises liability that can hold property owners accountable for criminal acts that happen on their property due to a lack of preventive measures. Under Georgia law, property owners and businesses are required to keep their customers and tenants safe from unreasonable dangers. In order to ensure people aren’t hurt on their premises, property owners need to take appropriate measures to learn of unsafe conditions and then make reasonable efforts to correct those dangers.
When businesses, property owners, and landlords fail to take appropriate action, and someone is seriously injured or killed on their premises, there may be grounds for a negligent security claim. Our Georgia law firm handles cases involving:
What are examples of negligent security?
Negligent security claims typically arise in areas where there is a known risk of criminal activity, but the property owner or business fails to act. Some of the most common settings include:
- Apartment Complexes. Lack of security personnel, broken gates, or poor lighting can create opportunities for assaults or robberies.
- Hotels and Motels. Without proper security staff or surveillance systems, guests may be exposed to theft, assault, or worse.
- Shopping Malls and Parking Garages. These areas are prone to muggings and car thefts, especially if there is inadequate lighting, a lack of security cameras, or no patrols.
- Bars and Nightclubs. Fights and assaults can often occur if these venues don’t provide proper bouncer services or monitor for aggressive behavior.
- College Campuses. Students are vulnerable to crimes, especially at night, if there isn’t adequate security patrolling campus grounds or housing facilities.
Negligent security cases vary widely, but they share one key factor: the owner or manager of the property did not take reasonable steps to prevent foreseeable harm.
What are the types of crimes linked to negligent security?
If someone is physically attacked on another person’s property because the business or property owner did not implement reasonable safety measures to protect visitors from violent crimes, then the victim may be able to pursue an inadequate security claim.
The most common violent crimes associated with negligent security claims are:
- Assault and Battery. Failure to provide security personnel in areas with a known history of violent crime can leave visitors vulnerable.
- Shootings and Stabbings. Failure to implement essential security measures like on-site personnel, surveillance cameras, or controlled access in high-crime areas can result in serious violence. In places like bars, nightclubs, and public events, the absence of proper security can allow shootings or stabbings to occur, putting visitors at significant risk. Property owners must ensure reasonable safety precautions to prevent these tragic events.
- Rape or Sexual Assault. Inadequate lighting, lack of surveillance cameras, or unsecured entrances in apartment complexes and parking lots can contribute to these devastating crimes.
- Muggings and Robberies. Businesses like retail stores, banks, and restaurants need security measures such as alarms, cameras, and trained personnel to deter robberies.
- Murder or Homicide. Negligent security can result in fatal consequences when known risks are ignored.
The results of these crimes can be life-altering, from physical injury to emotional trauma. If these crimes could have been prevented with appropriate security measures, the property owner can be held responsible.
What is the negligence per se law in Georgia?
In the context of Georgia negligent security incidents, “negligence per se” is a legal doctrine that allows a victim to prove negligence if the property owner violated a law or ordinance that was designed to protect people from the type of harm the victim suffered. In other words, if the property owner failed to comply with specific safety regulations or laws — such as building codes or security requirements — designed to prevent crime or injury, that violation can automatically be considered negligence.
For example, if a property owner failed to install proper lighting or security systems as required by local laws, and this failure directly led to a crime, the victim can use the negligence per se doctrine to establish that the property owner was negligent. In these cases, the violation of the law itself is proof of the property owner’s negligence, simplifying the burden of proving fault.
This doctrine is especially helpful in negligent security cases because it holds property owners to the legal standards set for safety and security, ensuring they are accountable for failing to meet these requirements. An experienced negligent security attorney can identify whether negligence per se applies to your case and use it to strengthen your claim.
How do I know if I have a negligent security case?
If you’ve been the victim of a crime on someone else’s property, you may have a negligent security case if the following is true:
- You were legally on the property as a tenant, customer, guest, or employee.
- A crime occurred that caused you physical or emotional harm.
- The property owner had a duty to provide reasonable security to keep you safe.
- The crime was foreseeable based on the property’s location or history of incidents.
- Security measures were inadequate, such as poor lighting, no cameras, or lack of security personnel.
- The lack of security directly contributed to the crime and your injuries.
If these factors are true, the victim may be entitled to compensation. Speaking with an experienced attorney is essential to evaluate the claim and protect the victim’s rights. An attorney can help navigate the process and fight for the justice the victim deserves.
How can a lawyer help me with my negligent security claim?
Cases involving inadequate security are rarely straightforward and often complex, so you should consider hiring an experienced attorney to handle every aspect of your claim. Our Georgia negligent security lawyers can:
- Research prior crimes in the area to see if appropriate security measures were taken
- Analyze internal reports to find out if there was prior knowledge of the hazard or danger
- Inspect what security practices are already in place
- Interview victims of similar crimes that occurred on the property or in the same area
- Consult with security experts
Our caring and compassionate legal team will leave no stone unturned to build a strong case on your behalf that gets real results. Best of all, you don’t have to pay us anything unless you win. That’s because we offer a zero-fee guarantee. No tricks, no obligations – it’s that easy.
Where do negligent security incidents occur?
While negligent security can happen on most private and commercial properties, it frequently occurs at:
- Hotels/Motels/Inns
- Drugstores
- Convenience Stores
- Gas Stations
- Big Box Stores
- Apartment Complexes
- Parking Lots/Parking Garages
- Office Buildings
- Bars/Nightclubs
- Restaurants
- ATMs/Banks
- Grocery Stores/Supermarkets
- Shopping Malls
- Retail Stores
- College Campuses/Campus Housing
It is the property owner’s fault for a crime on their premises because they have a legal responsibility to provide reasonable security measures to protect visitors from foreseeable dangers, even if they are not physically present at the time of the crime.
Can I still sue the property owner if the crime was committed by a third party?
Yes, even though the criminal act was carried out by a third party, the property owner can still be held liable if they failed to implement reasonable security measures to prevent foreseeable risks. If the third party responsible for the crime is caught, they may also be held accountable. A skilled negligent security attorney can thoroughly investigate the situation, identify all potentially liable parties — including the property owner, security company, or other responsible individuals — and pursue multiple claims or lawsuits as necessary to maximize compensation. This approach ensures that every avenue is explored to secure the justice and financial recovery the victim deserves.
What are types of failures that may be considered negligent or inadequate security?
When businesses and property owners fail to provide adequate security, the results can be devastating. Some of the most common examples of negligent security are:
- Insufficient lighting
- Failure to post warnings about known risks or dangers
- Lack of security cameras
- Failure to monitor security cameras
- Installing fake cameras/cameras that don’t work to give a false sense of security
- Lack of or broken physical barriers, such as fences, gates, doors, windows, and locks
- Failure to appropriately restrict access to the property
- The absence of trained and qualified security guards on patrol
If you or someone you love was attacked on another person’s property, it’s critical to move fast to protect your rights. While the person who hurt you will most likely face criminal charges, an Atlanta personal injury lawyer can make irresponsible businesses and property owners answer for their negligence.
What types of compensation can I recover in a negligent security case?
Victims of negligent security in Georgia may be entitled to the following types of compensation:
- Medical Expenses. Coverage for hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care.
- Lost Wages. Compensation for income lost due to time off work or diminished earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering. Compensation for the physical and emotional suffering caused by the injury.
- Emotional Distress. Damages for the psychological impact of the crime, such as anxiety or PTSD.
- Punitive Damages. In rare cases where the property owner’s negligence was especially egregious, additional compensation may be awarded to punish their actions and prevent future harm.
There is no exact average compensation for a negligent security claim in Georgia, as each case is unique, but generally, the more severe the injuries and impact on the victim's life, the higher the potential compensation awarded. An experienced attorney can help determine the full scope of compensation a victim may be entitled to.
How long do I have to file a negligent security claim in Georgia?
Georgia’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including negligent security, is generally two years from the date of the incident. However, it’s important to act quickly, as evidence can deteriorate or disappear over time. A lawyer can help by immediately investigating the scene, gathering crucial evidence, interviewing witnesses, and ensuring that all legal deadlines are met. This strengthens the victim’s case and maximizes the chances of full compensation.
Are property owners and businesses liable for injuries to trespassers?
Although property owners and businesses are required to provide adequate security to visitors, it doesn’t automatically mean the property owner or business is at fault if someone is injured while trespassing on their property. There are exceptions, but in most cases, a property owner or business can’t be held legally responsible when someone who isn’t lawfully allowed on the premises gets hurt.
What role does prior criminal activity play in a negligent security case?
If there is a history of criminal activity at a location, the property owner should be aware of the risks and take appropriate steps to protect visitors. Failing to address these risks can form the basis of a negligent security claim. A lawyer can help prove this by obtaining police reports, reviewing crime statistics for the area, and uncovering any prior complaints or incidents on the property. They may also interview local law enforcement and neighbors or consult security experts to show that the crime was foreseeable and that the property owner failed to implement necessary security measures. This evidence strengthens the claim and holds the property owner accountable for their negligence.
What should I do immediately after getting hurt on someone else’s property in Georgia?
If you've been injured on someone else's property in Georgia, taking the right steps early on can protect your rights and help build a strong case. Here are 8 steps to follow after a negligent security incident:
- Seek medical attention immediately. Your health comes first, so call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room, even if your injuries seem minor. Medical documentation of your injuries is crucial for your potential claim.
- Call the police. If a crime was involved, such as an assault or robbery, contact the police immediately. Having an official police report is vital for both your safety and for documenting the incident. Be sure to request a copy of the police report.
- Report the incident. Notify the property owner, manager, or security personnel about the accident. Request that they document the incident and get a copy of the incident report if possible.
- Document the scene. Take photos or videos of the area where the injury occurred, including any hazardous conditions (e.g., poor lighting, broken security cameras, or damaged fences). Also, capture any visible injuries you sustained.
- Gather witness information. If anyone witnessed the incident, ask for their contact details and a brief statement about what they saw. Witnesses can provide valuable testimony later.
- Preserve evidence. Keep any physical evidence related to the incident, such as clothing, shoes, or any items that were damaged. Avoid repairing or altering these items before consulting an attorney.
- Avoid giving statements to insurance adjusters. Do not speak to the property owner's insurance company or sign any paperwork without consulting a lawyer first. Anything you say can be used to minimize your claim.
Contact a Georgia negligent security attorney. A lawyer can assess your situation, help gather critical evidence, and guide you through the legal process to protect your rights and pursue maximum compensation.
What are the benefits of hiring a Georgia negligent security lawyer?
While you’re not legally required to have an attorney, hiring an experienced Georgia negligent security lawyer can significantly improve your chances of a successful claim. Here’s how our team at Gary Martin Hays & Associates can make a difference in your case:
- Navigate the Complex Legal Process with Confidence
Negligent security cases involve multiple legal steps, from proving the property owner’s responsibility to demonstrating how inadequate security directly led to your injuries. Our experienced attorneys understand the nuances of Georgia law and will guide you through every step, ensuring deadlines are met, and all paperwork is properly filed.
Why it matters: Mistakes or missed deadlines can jeopardize your case. We ensure everything is handled correctly so you can focus on recovering.
- Identify All Liable Parties
In many negligent security cases, more than one party may be responsible. For example, both the property owner and a third-party security company could be liable. Our attorneys conduct thorough investigations to identify every party that may be held accountable and pursue claims against each one to ensure maximum compensation.
Why it matters: Overlooking liable parties can limit the amount of compensation you recover. We ensure no stone is left unturned when seeking justice.
- Build a Strong Case with Solid Evidence
Proving negligent security requires substantial evidence, such as crime reports, security footage, and expert testimony. Our legal team will gather crucial evidence to show that the property owner knew or should have known about potential risks and failed to take appropriate security measures.
Why it matters: Strong evidence is the foundation of your case. We know what’s needed to prove negligence and build the strongest case possible.
- Challenge Lowball Settlement Offers
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts with quick, lowball settlements. With a skilled attorney on your side, you won’t be pressured into accepting less than what your injuries deserve. We negotiate aggressively to ensure that any settlement fully covers your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Why it matters: Victims are more likely to settle for less without legal representation. We fight for a fair settlement that reflects the true extent of your injuries.
- Maximize Your Compensation
Our attorneys carefully evaluate every aspect of your case—immediate and long-term medical needs, lost income, emotional trauma, and more—to calculate the full value of your claim. We pursue not just compensation for your current losses but also for any future costs related to your injury.
Why it matters: Victims often underestimate the long-term impact of their injuries. We make sure you receive the maximum compensation possible.
- Hold Property Owners Accountable for Negligent Security
Property owners have a responsibility to provide a safe environment for lawful visitors. When they fail to meet that duty, the consequences can be devastating. Our legal team holds negligent property owners accountable for their actions, ensuring justice is served and preventing future harm to others.
Why it matters: Property owners need to be held responsible for their negligence. We make sure they are.
- Provide Peace of Mind So You Can Focus on Recovery
Dealing with a negligent security claim can be overwhelming. By hiring Gary Martin Hays & Associates, you can focus on your recovery while we handle everything else. Our goal is to relieve you of the stress and uncertainty of a claim, allowing you to prioritize your health.
Why it matters: Your recovery should be your top priority. We take care of the legal work so you can focus on healing.
Hiring a Georgia negligent security lawyer can make all the difference in your case. With decades of experience, our team at Gary Martin Hays & Associates is dedicated to protecting your rights, securing full compensation, and holding negligent property owners accountable. Contact us today to discuss your case and get the help you need.
Attorney Gary Martin Hays Wrote the Top Book on Inadequate Security Claims
With more than three decades of experience negotiating negligent and malicious security claims in Atlanta and throughout Georgia, Attorney Hays created a resource for new attorneys, injured victims, and families looking for concrete answers about such complicated cases.
The Authority on Inadequate/Negligent Security Claims in Georgia
Each chapter provides detailed insight into negligent security law all while written in a voice for the everyday person to comprehend. Learn how to prove a negligent security claim, with actual examples of cases Attorney Hays's law firm has handled and won.
If you hire Gary Martin Hays & Associates, you'll receive a physical copy along with a personalized step-by-step plan of action to get justice for your pain and suffering. Download a digital copy for free, along with several other books on topics such as personal injury and wrongful death.
Take control of your claim with an experienced negligent security lawyer
Landlords, businesses, and property owners have a duty to provide reasonable security to the people who lawfully visit their premises. Unfortunately, that doesn’t always happen, and other people end up suffering the consequences.
Let our law firm hold them accountable. Our negligent security attorneys can meet with you, answer your questions, discuss your legal options, and give you an honest opinion on the best way to move your claim forward.
Find out what Gary Martin Hays & Associates, P.C. can do for you. Contact us today for your free case evaluation.
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