Late in the day on Wednesday, August 23, 2023, Port Orange law enforcement officers were dispatched to address a domestic conflict. The incident occurred at Sanctuary at West Port Apartments, located on Coraci Boulevard, around 7:20 p.m.
According to authorities, a man arrived at the apartment and shot his stepdaughter before turning the gun on himself. Emergency medical services immediately transported both individuals to the hospital in critical condition.
Details remain blurry about the occupants of the residence where the shooting took place.
Tragically, the stepfather succumbed to his injuries in the hospital. Meanwhile, his stepdaughter is had to undergo surgery and her condition was reported as critical.
Pursuing a Negligent Security Case in Florida After Getting Shot at an Apartment Complex
Being a victim of a shooting at an apartment complex can be a life-altering experience. If you believe that inadequate security contributed to your injuries, you may have grounds for a negligent security lawsuit in Florida.
Understanding Negligent Security
Before delving into the legal specifics, it's crucial to understand what negligent security means. In essence, property owners are required to take reasonable precautions to ensure the safety of their tenants and guests. Failure to do so can make them liable for injuries sustained on their property due to criminal attacks.
Establishing Liability
The Duty of Care
Property owners owe a "duty of care" to their tenants and visitors. This means they have a legal obligation to maintain a reasonably safe environment. If the owner neglected to do so and you were injured as a result, they might be liable.
Proving Negligence
To win a negligent security case, you must prove that the property owner knew or should have known about the security risks but failed to act. This could involve a lack of surveillance cameras, poor lighting, malfunctioning entrance gate, or even a history of similar incidents at the complex.
Gathering Evidence
Incident Reports and Police Records
Start by obtaining copies of any incident reports or police records relating to the shooting. These documents are pivotal in establishing the facts of the case.
Eyewitness Accounts
Collect statements from any witnesses who can substantiate your claims. Their accounts can significantly strengthen your case.
Calculating Damages
After establishing liability and gathering evidence, your next step is to calculate the damages you've suffered. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress.
Consulting with a Florida Negligent Security Attorney
Given the complexity of negligent security cases, consulting a negligent security attorney is advisable. They can guide you through the legal labyrinth and maximize your chances of securing a favorable settlement or verdict.
Conclusion
Pursuing a negligent security case in Florida involves multiple steps—from understanding the concept of negligent security to establishing liability, gathering evidence, calculating damages, and seeking legal guidance. Being well-informed and adequately prepared can increase your odds of receiving the compensation you deserve for your ordeal.
By adhering to these guidelines, you are not only arming yourself with essential knowledge but also paving the way for potential legal success in your negligent security case in Florida.
