When you are a patron of a business, you expect a safe atmosphere. In fact, you probably do not even have a second thought about your safety when you enter a business, such as a mall, hotel or restaurant. However, this is a real issue, since business owners in Connecticut are mandated by law to take reasonable safety measures to protect their customers.

If a patron is injured because a business didn't take the necessary precautions, they would be liable for compensating the victims. A property owner may be subject to a negligent security claim if a customer sustains an injury due to inadequate security, such as a robbery, assault, violence, rape, or even wrongful death, which unfortunately occur.

We will give you an overview of everything you need to know about negligent security claims in Connecticut in the following article. But most importantly, there are laws in place to hold a negligent property owner accountable.

Discuss your legal options with a CT personal injury lawyer if you were hurt  in a situation like this. Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney At Law can assist you.

Businesses Must Ensure Customer Safety

Companies are required by law in Connecticut to take action if there is proof of a history of criminal activity on its property.

If the owner of a bar discovers that assaults occur there frequently, they must take action by adopting security measures (i.e. hiring a bouncer) to ensure the safety of customers. Patrons may be able to file a claim for negligent security against the bar, for example, if they suffer injuries and claim that protection was inadequate and that the bar knew that the patrons were at risk but did nothing to protect them. This is also referred to as premises liability.

Who Is The Property Owner?

Who the legal "property owner" is may not always be clear. Of course, there are some instances where it is more straightforward. For example, the owner of a gas station is accountable for keeping it secure.

There are some circumstances where it is not obvious. Such as an injury that takes place at a mall store. It would be whoever is responsible for maintaining security at the property.

In terms of adequate security, the individual who has immediate control over the property is typically regarded as the owner.

Proving Inadequate Security and Negligence

There are numerous key things you must show to prove a successful personal injury claim for negligent security. Unfortunately, you have the burden of proof in your case since you are the plaintiff.

You must prove the following:

• That you were legally on the property when suffering injury
• The property owner neglected to protect the safety of its customers
• The property owner should have known that harm could occur
• The lack of proper security caused the victim's injury

Usually, proving inadequate security entails demonstrating that you were not trespassing and had permission to be there when the incident took place. You must also prove that the owner(s) had a reasonable expectation of knowing that you would be injured, whether as a result of the property's location in a high-crime area, previous assaults on or near the property, or for other factors. Additionally, you must demonstrate that the owner failed to take reasonable precautions to keep you safe (such as by employing a security guard or installing gate locks) and that you suffered losses as a result.

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In our history, we have successfully recovered millions for our clients. We are well versed in matters involving negligent security and premises liability.

Our lawyers offer legal services in English or Spanish, and serve the entire state of Connecticut. Call us today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.