Parking lots are frequently the scene of criminal activity. Thieves may break into vehicles to steal their contents. They may also steal vehicles. Other times, assaults and muggings may occur in parking lots. These locations have high levels of foot traffic that make them ideal locations for opportunistic criminals.
The people who commit crimes are responsible for their actions. However, crime victims may be unable to identify the criminals or unable to seek compensation from them. In some cases, landlords or businesses may be liable for crimes that occur in parking lots.
Could improved security have prevented the crime?
Those wondering whether they have grounds to hold a property owner, landlord or business responsible for criminal activity need to look at the situation carefully. Typically, a compensation claim following parking lot crimes requires that the plaintiff prove negligence on the part of the property owner, landlord or business.
Frequently, that means establishing negligent security practices contributed to the incident. Facility management becomes negligent when people overlook risk factors that reasonable people readily acknowledge.
A lack of outdoor lighting can lead to increased criminal activity. Installing motion-activated parking lot lights and ensuring their maintenance can significantly reduce the risk of criminal activity. Installing visible security cameras can also help deter crimes in a business parking lot. The presence of security professionals on the premises or the installation of a gate limiting access to the parking lot could also prevent crime from occurring.
If common-sense harm reduction strategies could have prevented a criminal incident, then a victim could theoretically have grounds for a premises liability lawsuit brought on the basis of negligent security. Evaluating the police report about the crime and details about the property with a skilled legal team can help people determine if they are in a position to take legal action.