A violent attack in a business’s parking lot, a shooting in a parking ramp, a stabbing in a hotel and a machete attack inside a retail store all are examples of negligent security. What these types of attacks have in common is that they occurred on properties where the owners and landlords are responsible for protecting people who visit them.
Such attacks can take place in settings such as restaurants, office buildings and apartment complexes. When you visit a retail store to shop, you do not expect to become the victim of a brutal attack and wind up in the hospital. What contributes to these attacks? Negligence tied to certain factors.
Lack of security, lighting and cameras
The above incidents happened in the past year in Pennsylvania, Minnesota, Georgia and New Jersey. They could happen just about anywhere. Here are some of the reasons why negligent security attacks take place:
- Lack of security or poorly trained security: There is always strength in numbers when it comes to security staff who serve as a deterrent for would-be criminals. Monitoring the property is their job. This team also must undergo proper security training.
- Insufficient lighting: Dim hallways, stairwells, parking lots and parking ramps provide the cover assailants want when planning attacks and robberies. Lights should work and bulbs replaced.
- Lack of or non-functioning security cameras: Security staff relies on cameras to monitor nearly every nook and cranny of a building. Such cameras must be in high traffic areas, properly maintained and replaced if not working.
- Poorly secured doors and windows: Criminals may easily access doors and windows that have poor locks, allowing them to break into buildings, hotel rooms and apartments.
Any of these factors may lead to tragic consequences where a victim dies or sustains life-changing injuries.
Having a sense of caution
Always subscribe to vigilance when visiting public places that you may be unfamiliar with or you even know well. An attack may happen in the night or even day. Having a sense of caution is not paranoia. It is common sense behavior that may help you avoid an attack attributed to negligent security.