Property owners have a fundamental duty to protect visitors, tenants, and customers from foreseeable harm—including sexual assault and abuse. When businesses, apartment complexes, hotels, or other property owners fail to implement adequate security measures, they may be held liable for attacks that occur on their premises. These cases can be complex, but a top-rated Kansas City sexual abuse attorney can help you seek justice.
What Constitutes Negligent Security in Kansas City?
Negligent security occurs when property owners fail to provide reasonable safety measures that could have prevented a sexual assault. Common examples include:
- Broken or insufficient lighting in parking lots and walkways
- Malfunctioning or absent security cameras
- Inadequate locks on doors and windows
- Lack of security personnel in high-risk areas
- Failing to conduct proper background checks on employees
- Ignoring previous incidents of criminal activity on the premises
- Neglecting to maintain secure entry systems
If similar crimes have happened in the area, or if the location has characteristics that make it vulnerable to criminal activity, the property owner has a heightened duty to implement appropriate security measures. When they neglect this duty, they may be liable for any crimes that occur as a result.
How to Prove Negligent Security in a Sexual Abuse Lawsuit
To prove negligent security in a sexual abuse lawsuit, you must prove a series of important facts. First, you must demonstrate that the property owner owed you a duty of care to maintain adequate security measures. Next, you need to show that the property owner breached this duty and that you suffered sexual assault because of this breach.
You need strong evidence to establish these facts. A Kansas City sexual abuse lawyer will gather security footage, maintenance records, incident reports, and witness testimonies. They will research the crime history of the area and examine whether the property owner was aware of previous security issues. Security professionals can also testify about what reasonable security measures should have been in place.
How a Kansas City Sexual Abuse Lawyer Can Protect Your Rights
Sexual abuse cases that involve negligent security can be complicated to handle on your own. This is why you need an attorney on your side. Your lawyer will know how to build a compelling case against the property owner and prove that their negligence was the proximate cause of your assault.
Your specialized injury attorney in Kansas City will conduct a thorough investigation, working with security experts and private investigators to uncover evidence of negligent security practices. They will handle all communications with the defendant’s legal team and insurance representatives, protecting you from aggressive tactics designed to minimize your claim and diminish your experience.
Beyond legal representation, your lawyer serves as an advocate who understands the trauma you have experienced. They will protect your privacy throughout the legal process and work to secure compensation for your medical expenses, therapy costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
If you were sexually abused and negligent security played a role, you do not have to face this difficult journey alone. A Kansas City sexual abuse lawyer will handle all legal aspects of your case while providing the support and guidance you deserve. Contact a qualified attorney today for a free, confidential consultation about your rights and legal options.