How To Prove A Negligent Security Claim
When an individual is harmed due to inadequate safety measures on someone else’s property, they will likely take action to have their accident-related expenses covered. In Baltimore, proving a negligent security claim requires a meticulous approach. It’s not always a clear cut issue, but a Baltimore personal injury lawyer can compassionately listen to your side of the story and explore next steps with you.
Elements of a Claim and Gathering Initial Evidence
To successfully prove a negligent security claim, you must establish that a property owner had a duty to provide reasonable security measures and that they failed to do so, which directly caused your injuries. There needs to be evidence there are damages, proof you suffered actual harm (physical, emotional, financial) due to the breach.
Steps to take in order to secure recovery include the following.
- Reports from law enforcement. As soon as possible following an incident, report it to the police. The official police report will contain crucial details such as the time, date, and nature of the incident. This report serves as an authoritative account of the incident and can substantiate a claim.
- Security footage. Request access to any available security camera footage from the property. A lawyer can do this on your behalf. This footage can offer indisputable evidence of the incident and highlight any security failures, such as lack of monitoring or poor lighting.
- Witness statements. Collect contact information from any witnesses present at the scene. Witnesses can provide firsthand accounts of the incident and any security lapses they observed. Their statements can corroborate your version of events and provide additional perspectives.
Additionally, expert evaluations can support a person’s right to recovery. For example, a security expert can provide a professional assessment of the adequacy of the security protocols compared to industry standards and a medical expert can detail the extent of your injuries and link them to the incident.
Work with Legal Professionals to Establish a Timeline
Chronological accounts are another important way to strengthen a claim. As soon as you hire a lawyer they will begin the process of creating a detailed timeline of the events leading up to, during, and after the incident. This timeline will include interactions with property management, police, medical professionals, and any other relevant parties. A clear timeline helps paint a comprehensive picture of the incident and its aftermath.
Additionally, your Baltimore personal injury lawyer will research and document any previous security incidents at the property. A history of similar incidents can strengthen your case by demonstrating a pattern of negligence by the property owner. By working with a lawyer to gather evidence, create a timeline, and research past infractions, you can build a strong case.
What questions do you have when it comes to the responsibilities of MD property owners? If you were injured while frequenting a local business, consulting with the experienced legal team at Iamele & Iamele, LLP will boost your chances of securing the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses. Contact us to book a confidential consultation.
