When you visit a hotel, shopping center, or parking garage in the Florida Keys, you expect to be safe. Unfortunately, property owners and managers sometimes fail to provide adequate security, leaving visitors vulnerable to criminal acts. At Altman Law Firm, Jeffrey S. Altman assists individuals who have been harmed due to preventable security lapses in Monroe County.
In Florida, property owners have a legal duty to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition. This includes implementing security measures—such as proper lighting, functional locks, and security personnel—when the risk of criminal activity is foreseeable. If a property owner ignores these obligations and a visitor is injured as a result, they may be held accountable for the damages that follow.
From the bustling tourist areas of Key West to the more secluded stretches of the Overseas Highway, Monroe County presents unique challenges for premises liability. Whether an incident occurred at a resort, a marina, or a commercial complex, gathering evidence is critical. Florida law requires claimants to navigate complex rules regarding comparative negligence, which can impact how fault is assigned. Our firm helps clients evaluate the circumstances of their incident to determine if a claim against the property owner is appropriate.
Florida law imposes a statute of limitations on personal injury claims, meaning there is a specific timeframe within which a lawsuit must be filed. Furthermore, evidence like surveillance footage or witness statements can disappear quickly if not properly preserved. If you or a loved one have been harmed due to a security failure, speaking with a legal professional early on can help you understand your rights and the steps necessary to protect your potential claim.
Negligent security occurs when a property owner fails to take reasonable measures to protect guests from foreseeable criminal attacks, such as assault or robbery, on their property.
Florida follows a comparative negligence system. This means your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault, but you may still be eligible to recover damages depending on the specific circumstances of the case.
While every case is different, potential damages may include medical expenses, lost wages, and compensation for pain and suffering related to the incident.
Negligence is often determined by whether the owner knew or should have known about a security risk and failed to take reasonable steps to mitigate it. An attorney can help analyze the specific facts of your situation.
If you have questions about a security-related injury in Monroe County, contact Altman Law Firm to schedule a consultation with our team. Call (305) 373-3730.