San Diego Negligent Security Lawyer

Injured Due to Inadequate Security in San Diego, CA?

When you enter a business, apartment complex, hotel, or event venue in San Diego, you expect it to be reasonably safe. Unfortunately, some property owners fail to take the necessary steps to protect their visitors from foreseeable harm. If you’ve been the victim of a crime that could have been prevented with better security measures, you may be entitled to compensation through a negligent security claim.

At The McClellan Law Firm, our experienced San Diego negligent security attorneys help victims pursue justice and financial recovery for injuries resulting from inadequate safety measures. We are committed to holding property owners accountable for putting profits over people.

Contact us today at (619) 215-1488 for a free consultation

Properties That Require Security

Not every property needs security personnel or cameras, but California law requires all property owners and managers to provide a reasonably safe environment for their guests and tenants. The type of security measures expected can vary based on the location, property use, and history of criminal activity in the area.

Some types of properties where security is often expected include:

• Apartment complexes: Tenants should have access to secured entrances, working locks, and well-lit common areas.
• Hotels and motels: Guest safety is a top priority; locks, surveillance, and attentive staff are often necessary.
• Nightclubs and bars: Alcohol-fueled environments frequently warrant bouncers and other security personnel.
• Shopping centers and parking garages: Poor lighting, lack of surveillance, and isolated locations can make these areas dangerous without security.
• College campuses and student housing: Universities have a responsibility to ensure the safety of their students.
• Office buildings and business parks: Security measures like ID access systems and surveillance are often necessary.
• Hospitals and medical centers: These facilities must maintain a safe environment for vulnerable patients.

If a crime occurred on any of these premises due to inadequate security, the property owner may be held responsible.

Common Forms of Inadequate Security

Negligent security can take many forms. It is not limited to a total absence of security—it also includes insufficient or poorly executed safety measures. Some common examples include:

• Broken locks or gates: Failing to repair damaged doors or access points can leave people exposed to intruders.
• Lack of security cameras or surveillance systems: Monitoring equipment can deter criminal behavior and provide evidence if a crime occurs.
• Inadequate lighting: Dark stairwells, hallways, or parking lots can create opportunities for assault or theft.
• Untrained or absent security staff: Security guards must be properly vetted and trained to handle emergency situations.
• Failure to respond to prior criminal incidents: If similar crimes have occurred before, property owners are expected to take additional precautions.
• Improper crowd control: At large events or gatherings, lack of planning or security can lead to injuries or assaults.

When these or other safety failures lead to harm, you may have a valid negligent security case.

Who is Liable for Negligent Security?

Under California premises liability laws, property owners, landlords, property managers, and even third-party security companies may be held legally responsible if a person is injured due to inadequate security.

To succeed in a negligent security case, your legal team must typically prove:

• The defendant had a duty to maintain reasonably safe conditions on their property.
• The defendant breached that duty by failing to provide adequate security.
• The breach directly led to your injury (e.g., an assault, robbery, or shooting).
• You suffered actual damages, such as medical expenses, emotional trauma, or lost income.

Establishing liability in these cases often requires a detailed investigation, witness testimony, crime data, and expert analysis. That’s why it’s important to consult our San Diego negligent security lawyer from The McClellan Law Firm to evaluate your case and gather crucial evidence.

FAQs About Negligent Security Claims in San Diego, CA

What types of crimes can lead to a negligent security claim?

Victims of assaults, sexual assaults, robberies, shootings, and even homicides may have a claim if those crimes occurred due to poor or missing security on someone else's property.

How long do I have to file a negligent security claim in San Diego?

In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims—including negligent security—is generally two years from the date of the incident. However, certain exceptions may apply, so it’s important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.

Can I sue if I was injured in a San Diego hotel or Airbnb due to poor security?

Yes, both commercial lodging businesses and short-term rental hosts can be held liable for failing to provide reasonably safe premises, depending on the facts of your case.

Do I have to press criminal charges first?

No. A civil negligent security claim is separate from any criminal proceedings. You can file a lawsuit for compensation even if no criminal charges were filed, or if the perpetrator was never caught.

What compensation can I recover?

Compensation in negligent security cases may include:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Property damage (if applicable)is always free.

Call a San Diego Negligent Security Attorney Today

If you or a loved one has been the victim of a preventable crime on someone else’s property, you may be entitled to justice and compensation. The team at The McClellan Law Firm is here to help you understand your rights and take legal action against negligent property owners.

Our San Diego negligent security lawyers offer compassionate, aggressive representation and have the experience to handle even the most complex cases. We’ll work tirelessly to hold the responsible parties accountable and recover the maximum compensation you deserve.

Call (619) 215-1488 or contact us online to begin your journey towards justice and recovery.