Negligent Security in Kentucky: When a Property Owner's Failure Leads to Assault

If poor lighting or broken locks enabled an attack, a Kentucky property owner may be liable. Learn how negligent security claims work.

Crime can create civil liability

When a person is assaulted, robbed, or attacked on someone else's property, the criminal who did it is obviously responsible — but so, sometimes, is the property owner. If the owner failed to provide reasonable security and that failure made a foreseeable crime possible, they may share civil liability. This is called negligent security.

What 'reasonable security' looks like

Depending on the property and its history, reasonable measures might include adequate lighting, functioning locks and gates, security cameras, and — in higher-risk settings — security personnel. Apartment complexes, parking garages, hotels, bars, and shopping centers are common settings for these claims.

Foreseeability is key

A central question is whether the crime was foreseeable — for example, if there had been prior similar incidents at the location that should have prompted better security. Evidence of past crime, police calls, and the property's condition all matter.

Holding owners accountable

These claims are sensitive and complex, but they can provide compensation to victims and push property owners to make their premises safer. Preserving evidence of the property's condition and security history is important.

If you were harmed due to inadequate security, call 973-566-5599 for a free, confidential review.