An alarming episode in Atlanta's Pittsburgh neighborhood at an apartment complex has left the community in a state of distress. Two young individuals tragically lost their lives, and another was severely wounded in a shooting incident that transpired at a southwest Atlanta apartment complex on the evening of Tuesday, June 20, 2023.
The tragic event unfolded on McDaniel Street, with the initial distress call being made slightly after 5:30 p.m. investigators are of the view that this was a deliberate attack. Apparently, the young victims were males aged between 18 and 21 years old. They were allegedly hanging out together when someone drove up and a scooter and started shooting at them.
Medical personnel immediately transported the wounded victim to Grady Memorial Hospital to receive urgent care.
Can You Bring a Lawsuit for Negligent Security if You Get Shot at an Apartment Complex?
Should you find yourself a victim of a shooting incident at an apartment complex, you may be eligible to pursue a negligent security lawsuit. The key element in such a claim is that the owner or manager of the property failed to uphold an acceptable level of safety, resulting in harm to residents or visitors.
The crux of a successful negligent security lawsuit rests on the claimant's ability to prove that the property owner didn't exercise due diligence in maintaining a safe environment. If it can be demonstrated that the owner could reasonably anticipate potential dangers, such as criminal activity, yet failed to put appropriate preventative measures in place, they could potentially be held accountable.
Appropriate security measures for an apartment complex might include adequate lighting, operational security cameras, secure access controls, or on-site security personnel. If these were non-existent, insufficient, or ineffective, and you suffered harm as a consequence, you may have a legitimate case.
However, it's important to note that every case is unique, and laws pertaining to negligent security vary by jurisdiction. Therefore, it's highly recommended to consult with a knowledgeable attorney who specializes in negligent security claims. They can assess the validity of your case, gather the necessary evidence, and represent your best interests throughout the legal proceedings.
What Are Some Common Issues that Lead to Negligent Security Lawsuits at Apartment Complexes?
Several prevailing problems can give rise to negligent security lawsuits at apartment complexes. Property owners or managers are obligated to ensure a safe environment for their residents, and a failure to do so can lead to legal consequences. Here are some commonly cited issues that can lead to such lawsuits:
Inadequate Lighting
Proper illumination is crucial in discouraging criminal activity. Dimly lit parking lots, walkways, or common areas can invite potential threats, leaving residents vulnerable.
Lack of Security Cameras
The absence of surveillance systems, or the presence of malfunctioning or poorly placed cameras, can fail to deter or document criminal behavior, which is a critical factor in negligent security claims.
Absence or Inadequate Security Personnel
An apartment complex, especially in a high-crime area, may require security guards for protection. If security personnel are absent, insufficient, or poorly trained, it can lead to a lawsuit.
Unsecured Access Points
If entrances, exits, or gates are left unlocked or are easily bypassed, it provides an opportunity for intruders to enter the premises.
Neglected Maintenance
Broken locks, non-operational security systems, or poorly maintained property conditions can contribute to a lack of safety for residents.
Inadequate Response to Prior Incidents
If property owners or managers do not take appropriate action following reports or incidents of crime on the property, it can be a significant factor in a negligent security lawsuit.
Failure to Conduct Background Checks
If property managers fail to screen prospective tenants properly, it could potentially lead to a dangerous individual residing in the complex.
In all these scenarios, if harm befalls a resident or visitor due to these security lapses, it may provide grounds for a negligent security lawsuit. It's always advised to consult with a knowledgeable attorney who can guide through the legal intricacies involved in these cases.
Our Negligent Security Attorneys are Here to Fight for You
If you’ve been the victim of a violent criminal attack on the property of a business, like a hotel, apartment complex, restaurant, gas station, convenience store, or bar, you should speak with an experienced negligent security lawyer as soon as possible because you may be entitled to compensation. You can contact us online or you can call our downtown Orlando, Florida law office at (321) 352-7588 to schedule your consultation.
For more information on personal injury cases in general, you can download our free personal injury guide: P.I. 101: Your Quick Guide to Personal Injury Claims.
Disclaimer: Nothing in this article is meant to be a guarantee of results. Past case results do not guarantee future case results. Each case is unique. The information in this article has been gathered from various sources on Google. Thus, we cannot guarantee there are no inaccuracies herein. We can and will correct or remove this post upon request. You can email us at [email protected]. Finally, the information contained in this article is not meant to be legal advice in any way. If you have legal questions, you should contact an attorney.