Injured at a Bar, Nightclub, or Business in Florida? What to Know About Negligent Security Claims

In Florida, certain cases involving injuries caused by third-party criminal acts can involve premises liability and questions about the security provided by the property owner, operator, lessor, or manager. Florida law specifically addresses premises-liability actions brought by people lawfully on commercial or real property who are injured by the criminal act of a third party.

What Is Negligent Security in Florida?

Negligent security generally refers to a type of premises-liability claim involving allegations that inadequate security contributed to circumstances in which someone was injured by criminal activity.

Depending on the facts, security-related issues could involve lighting, access controls, security personnel, surveillance systems, or other measures.

However, an injury occurring on someone else's property does not automatically mean the property owner is legally responsible. Liability depends on the circumstances and applicable Florida law.

Where Can Negligent Security Cases Occur?

Potential Florida negligent security claims can arise in many settings, including bars and nightclubs, hotels, shopping centers, parking lots and garages, apartment complexes, restaurants, convenience stores, and entertainment venues.

Florida law also contains specific provisions concerning security measures at certain convenience businesses and multifamily residential properties, making the exact location and circumstances particularly important.

What Evidence Could Matter After an Incident?

Evidence can disappear quickly after an assault or other incident. Depending on the situation, potentially relevant evidence may include security camera footage, photographs and videos, police reports, witness information, incident reports, medical records, and information concerning security measures at the property.

Preserving available evidence early can therefore be important when evaluating a potential Florida premises liability or negligent security claim.

What If More Than One Person Contributed to the Injury?

These cases can be complicated because multiple parties may be involved. Florida Statute § 768.0701 provides that, in covered premises-liability actions involving injuries caused by a third party's criminal act, the trier of fact must consider the fault of all persons who contributed to the injury.

That is one reason an attorney needs to evaluate the specific circumstances rather than assuming that one person or business automatically bears responsibility.

Injured at a Florida Business or Property?

If you were injured during an assault or other criminal incident at a bar, nightclub, apartment complex, hotel, parking area, or other Florida property, you may have questions about whether inadequate security played a role.

Caproni Law can review the circumstances surrounding an incident and explain the legal options that may be available.

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is different, and reading this article or contacting the firm does not, by itself, create an attorney-client relationship.