Garden City Negligent Security Attorney

If you or a loved one were harmed because a property owner failed to provide proper security, you may be entitled to compensation. At Horn Wright, LLP, we fight for victims of negligent security in Garden City, NY, helping them hold careless property owners and businesses accountable for failing to keep their premises safe.

Property owners in New York have a legal duty to take reasonable measures to protect visitors, tenants, and customers from foreseeable dangers—including crimes committed by third parties. When they fail to do so, innocent people can suffer assaults, robberies, or worse. That is where an experienced Garden City negligent security lawyer can help.

Call (516) 714-5975 to schedule a free consultation with a legal team dedicated to your recovery.

Common Forms of Security

The type of security needed depends on the property and the risks associated with it. Common safety measures that property owners may be expected to provide include:

• Security guards – On-site personnel to monitor activity and deter crime.
• Lighting – Adequate lighting in parking lots, hallways, stairwells, and entryways.
• Locks & keycard systems – Secure locks, functioning keypads, or access control systems in apartment complexes and hotels.
• Cameras (CCTV systems) – Surveillance to monitor entrances, exits, and high-traffic areas.
• Fencing & barriers – Preventing unauthorized access to private areas.
• Emergency communication systems – Phones, alarms, or panic buttons to alert authorities.

When these measures are missing or not maintained, it can create opportunities for criminal activity that puts visitors at risk.

When is Security Required?

Not every property needs the same level of security. However, New York law requires property owners to act reasonably based on the circumstances. Factors that influence when security is required include:

• Location of the property – Businesses in high-crime areas must take greater precautions.
• History of criminal activity – If similar crimes have happened before, owners must take steps to prevent future incidents.
• Nature of the property – Bars, nightclubs, hotels, shopping centers, and apartment complexes generally require stronger security measures.
• Events or special circumstances – Concerts, festivals, or large gatherings increase risks and require heightened security.

When property owners ignore these warning signs, they can be held liable for failing to protect their guests.

Common Examples of Inadequate Security

Negligent security can take many forms. Some of the most common examples include:

• Broken or missing locks on apartment or hotel doors.
• Dark parking lots with no lighting, making assaults or robberies more likely.
• Lack of security guards in places where crowds gather or where alcohol is served.
• Non-functioning cameras or alarms that could have deterred or captured evidence of criminal acts.
• Poorly trained staff who fail to handle disturbances or emergencies properly.
• Failure to monitor entrances and exits, allowing trespassers to gain access.

Each of these failures can directly contribute to violent crimes such as assault, sexual assault, robbery, or even homicide.

Who is Liable for Negligent Security?

In a negligent security claim, the responsible party is usually the property owner or business operator who failed to provide a safe environment. Potentially liable parties may include:

• Apartment complex owners or landlords who fail to secure common areas.
• Hotels & motels that ignore broken locks or fail to provide adequate surveillance.
• Nightclubs, bars, and restaurants that fail to provide security personnel or crowd control.
• Shopping malls & retail stores that do not address known safety risks in their parking areas.
• Event organizers or venues that fail to hire sufficient security for large crowds.

To win a claim, you must prove that the crime was foreseeable and that reasonable security measures could have prevented it. That is why having a knowledgeable Garden City negligent security attorney on your side is crucial.

How Horn Wright, LLP Can Help

At Horn Wright, LLP, we understand how devastating it is to be the victim of a preventable crime. Our legal team:

• Investigates the crime scene and security failures
• Reviews police reports, surveillance footage, and prior incidents
• Consults with security experts to prove negligence
• Identifies all liable parties, including property owners, management companies, and security contractors
• Fights for full compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, emotional trauma, and pain and suffering
• We are committed to holding negligent property owners accountable and ensuring our clients receive justice

Negligent Security FAQs

What is negligent security?

Negligent security occurs when a property owner fails to provide reasonable safety measures, leading to someone being harmed by criminal activity.

What types of damages can I recover?

Victims may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, emotional distress, and pain and suffering. In some cases, punitive damages may also be available.

How do I prove negligent security in New York?

You must show that the crime was foreseeable, the property owner failed to take reasonable precautions, and that failure directly caused your injury.

What is the statute of limitations for negligent security claims in NY?

Generally, you have three years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury claim. However, deadlines may vary depending on the circumstances, so it is best to contact an attorney right away.

Do I need a lawyer for my negligent security claim?

Yes. These cases can be complex and often require expert testimony, extensive investigation, and aggressive negotiation with insurance companies. A skilled lawyer can greatly improve your chances of success.

Speak with a Garden City Negligent Security Lawyer Today

If you were injured due to inadequate security in Garden City, NY, you should not have to face the consequences alone. Property owners and businesses must be held accountable when their negligence leads to preventable crimes. At Horn Wright, LLP, we are dedicated to protecting victims’ rights and fighting for the compensation they deserve.

Contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced Garden City negligent security attorney.