When property owners fail to take reasonable steps to protect visitors and tenants from foreseeable harm, the consequences can be devastating. Assaults, robberies, and other violent crimes can occur on properties that lack adequate security measures, leaving victims with life-altering injuries and emotional trauma.
At Berg Injury Lawyers, we believe that property owners must be held accountable for their negligence when it results in injuries and harm to others. Our experienced Fresno negligent security lawyers are dedicated to helping victims seek justice and obtain the compensation they need to move forward. If you or a loved one has been harmed due to negligent security, contact us today for a free consultation.
Understanding Negligent Security in Fresno
Negligent security refers to a property owner’s failure to implement reasonable security measures to deter foreseeable criminal acts on their premises. To prove a negligent security claim in Fresno, several key legal elements must be established:
- Duty of Care: The property owner owed a duty of care to the victim (e.g., a visitor or tenant), meaning there was a legal obligation to take reasonable steps to prevent foreseeable harm.
- Breach of Duty: The property owner failed to uphold their duty of care by not implementing adequate security measures.
- Causation: The property owner’s breach of duty caused the victim’s injuries.
- Damages: The victim suffered actual damages, such as physical injuries, emotional distress, or financial losses, as a result of the incident.
Examples of situations that could constitute negligent security include:
- Inadequate Lighting: Poorly lit areas can create opportunities for criminals to act without being seen.
- Broken Locks or Gates: Malfunctioning security measures can make it easy for unauthorized individuals to access a property.
- Lack of Security Personnel: In high-risk areas, the presence of security guards can deter crime and provide immediate assistance in emergencies.
- Failure to Address Known Risks: If a property owner is aware of a history of crime on their premises and fails to take action, they can be held liable for subsequent incidents.
Proving negligent security can be complex, requiring a thorough investigation and legal skill. At Berg Injury Lawyers, our Fresno premises liability lawyers have the knowledge and experience to build a strong case on your behalf.
Proving negligent security in Fresno requires reviewing crime reports, security footage, and maintenance logs. We know the security challenges in high-traffic areas like Blackstone Avenue, Shaw Avenue, and the Tower District, where businesses, apartments, and nightlife venues see frequent crime.
We work with local experts to show how better security could have prevented your injuries.
Common Locations for Negligent Security Incidents
Negligent security incidents happen throughout Fresno, but certain locations are more vulnerable.
- Apartment Complexes: Large complexes—especially in the Tower District, Sunnyside, and east of Blackstone Avenue—become targets for break-ins and assaults when access points, gates, or lighting aren’t maintained.
- Hotels and Motels:Fresno’s many motels along Blackstone Avenue, Shields Avenue, and near Highway 99 are frequent sites of criminal activity when security is lax. In 2021, for example, two people were stabbed outside a Motel 6 on Blackstone and Griffith, and a 2022 homicide occurred at a Roadway Inn. These incidents highlight the importance of adequate surveillance, locked perimeter access, and well-trained staff.
- Shopping Centers: Fashion Fair Mall, River Park Shopping Center, and other busy commercial areas attract high foot traffic and theft. Property owners must maintain security patrols and surveillance.
- Parking Garages and Lots: Dimly lit parking areas—especially downtown and near Clovis—are common sites for assaults, car break-ins, and robberies. Proper lighting and cameras are critical.
- Bars and Nightclubs: The Tower District and downtown Fulton Street see frequent late-night altercations. Venues must employ trained security, monitor capacity, and prevent overserving alcohol.
- Office Buildings: Low-traffic office spaces can be dangerous after hours. Owners should use controlled entry, cameras, and alarms to protect employees and visitors.
Fresno’s mix of urban centers, suburban neighborhoods, and nightlife creates unique security challenges that property owners must take seriously.
H2: What to Do After a Negligent Security Incident in Fresno
If you’ve been injured on a property with inadequate security, take these steps to protect your health and legal rights:
- Call the Police: Contact law enforcement immediately. A police report provides essential evidence. Request a copy through the Fresno Police Department’s Records Office.
- Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of broken locks, poor lighting, lack of cameras, your injuries, and any hazards.
- Collect Witness Information: Get names and contact details from anyone who saw what happened.
- Notify the Property Owner: Report the incident to the owner, landlord, or manager. Provide basic facts only and don’t discuss fault or accept blame. Ask for a copy of any incident report.
- Seek Medical Treatment: Even minor injuries can worsen over time. Get checked immediately at reputable medical facilities such as:
- Community Regional Medical Center – Downtown Fresno
- Saint Agnes Medical Center – North Fresno
- Fresno Medical Center – Pinedale
- Urgent care centers throughout the city
Tell your provider how the incident occurred so injuries are properly documented.
- Contact a Lawyer: Once you’ve received medical care, contact Berg Injury Lawyers. We’ll handle communication with property owners and insurers, preserve evidence, and build your case for compensation.
Compensation for Negligent Security Cases in Fresno
If you’ve been injured due to negligent security in Fresno, you have the right to seek compensation for your losses. Berg Injury Lawyers is dedicated to helping you navigate the complex process of recovering damages and holding negligent property owners accountable.
The damages you might able to pursue include:
- Medical Bills: Costs associated with hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and ongoing treatment for your injuries
- Lost Wages and Future Earning Potential: Compensation for the income you’ve missed due to your inability to work while recovering from your injuries, as well as potential income you’ll lose in the future
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve suffered, such as depression or PTSD
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for any personal belongings that were damaged or lost during the incident
It’s important to understand that every negligent security case is unique, and the specific damages you can recover will depend on the circumstances of your situation. Our Fresno negligent security lawyers have the experience and expertise to evaluate your case, calculate your damages, and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Contact Our Fresno Negligent Security Lawyers
If you or a loved one has been injured due to negligent security in Fresno, reach out to Berg Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation. We can investigate the incident, review security footage, interview witnesses, and build a strong case on your behalf. We can also handle all communication with insurance companies and negotiate aggressively to get you a fair settlement. Get in touch with our Fresno negligent security lawyers and let us put our experience and resources to work for you.
