Assaults Due to Inadequate Security in Southwest Florida

Dedicated Personal Injury Lawyers Representing Naples, Fort Myers, and Southwest Florida

Inadequate security measures on properties can lead to serious assaults, raising concerns about premises liability. While specific statistics for 2024-2025 are pending release, historical data indicates a concerning trend. For instance, in Florida, approximately 2,000,000 injuries and deaths occur each year due to domestic violence, with about one-third of patients seeking care in emergency departments. These figures underscore the critical need for adequate security measures to protect individuals from foreseeable harm.​ 

In Southwest Florida, urban areas like Fort Myers and Naples have experienced incidents where insufficient security contributed to assaults. Common factors include poor lighting, lack of surveillance systems, and inadequate security personnel, creating environments where criminal activities can occur.​ 

Legal Framework: Premises Liability and Negligent Security in Florida

Under Florida law, property owners are obligated to maintain safe environments for visitors. Negligent security falls under premises liability, holding property owners accountable when inadequate security measures lead to criminal acts causing harm. To establish a negligent security claim, the following elements must be proven:​ 

• Duty of Care: The property owner had a legal obligation to provide reasonable security measures.​ 
• Breach of Duty: The owner failed to implement adequate security protocols.​ 
• Causation: The lack of proper security directly resulted in the assault.​ 
• Damages: The victim suffered quantifiable harm, such as physical injuries or emotional distress.​

Recent legislative changes, such as Florida's House Bill 837, have impacted tort law, including provisions related to negligent security claims. This "tort reform" bill aims to balance victim protection with incentivizing property owners to enhance security measures. ​ 

Common Scenarios Leading to Assaults Due to Inadequate Security

Assaults resulting from inadequate security often occur in various settings, including:​

• Residential Complexes: Insufficient lighting, malfunctioning locks, or lack of security personnel can make residents vulnerable to assaults.​ 
• Commercial Establishments: Businesses without surveillance systems or security staff may inadvertently provide opportunities for criminal activities.​
• Parking Facilities: Poorly lit or unmonitored parking lots and garages can become hotspots for assaults.​ 

For example, a shopping center in an area with a notable uptick in robberies that fails to install additional lighting or hire security personnel may be held liable if a shopper is assaulted in the parking lot during evening hours.  

Pittman Law Firm, P.L.: Advocates for Victims Across Southwest Florida

At Pittman Law Firm, P.L., we are committed to representing victims of assaults due to inadequate security throughout Southwest Florida, including Naples, Fort Myers, and Bonita Springs. Our experienced attorneys understand the complexities of premises liability law and work diligently to hold negligent property owners accountable.​

With offices strategically located in Fort Myers and Bonita Springs, we are accessible to clients across the region. Our legal team offers personalized attention, guiding victims through the legal process to secure the compensation they deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional suffering.​

Steps to Take if You Are a Victim of Assault Due to Inadequate Security

If you or a loved one has been assaulted due to inadequate security, consider the following steps:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize your health by obtaining immediate medical care for any injuries sustained.​
2. Report the Incident: File a police report to document the assault officially.​
3. Gather Evidence: Collect any available evidence, such as photographs of the scene, witness contact information, and details of the inadequate security measures.​
4. Consult Legal Counsel: Reach out to a premises liability attorney to evaluate your case and discuss potential legal actions.​

Pittman Law Firm, P.L. offers free consultations to assess your situation and provide guidance on the best course of action.​