Can I Obtain Compensation for an Injury that Occurred Due to Negligent Security?

 Posted on August 02, 2019 in Personal Injury

Someone who is injured because of another person’s negligence may be able to pursue compensation through a personal injury lawsuit. There are various types of damages that a victim can receive compensation for, such as injuries that occurred and property that was damaged in the accident. However, it is important to follow the correct legal procedures in these types of cases. One type of situation in which a person may be able to pursue compensation from a property owner involves injuries that occurred because of inadequate security.

What Is Considered Adequate Security?

Adequate security varies from place to place. Some examples of the measures that a property owner should take to protect people’s safety include providing appropriate lighting, functioning locks, security patrols when necessary, and wet-floor signs. These means of security can help protect consumers of businesses as well as employees. Wisconsin statute 101.11 specifies an employer’s duty to furnish a safe place of employment. Under this law, employers shall protect the “life, health, safety, and welfare of such employees and frequenters.” This also forbids employers from requiring or allowing any employee to work in a place that is unsafe. 

This particular statute focuses on employer requirements. However, the requirement to provide adequate security may affect both employees and customers. Employers should follow local codes and regulations to ensure the safety of anyone who enters their business.

What Are the Statutes of Limitations in Wisconsin?

Much like any other case, there is a time period known as the “statute of limitations” that acts as an expiration date for reporting an injury and being eligible for compensation. An action to recover damages for injuries or death “by the wrongful act, neglect, or default of another” must be commenced within three years. 

What Must a Wisconsin Personal Injury Attorney Prove?

An experienced personal injury attorney can ensure that the proper steps are followed to demonstrate that a negligent property owner is liable for a person’s injuries. In these cases, they can demonstrate that:

1. The defendant owed the plaintiff a duty of care that the defendant breached by failing to provide an adequate level of safety.
2. The plaintiff suffered damages due to the defendant’s disregard for safety.

At Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown, LLP, our personal injury attorneys have experience with all forms of injury cases, from broken bones to fatalities. If you have been injured because of the negligence of a property owner, contact our Milwaukee personal injury attorneys at 414-271-1440 for assistance. 

Sources:

https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/893/V/54

https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/101/I/11

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/negligence