1. The apartment owner knew about prior similar crimes in the complex;
2. failed to implement adequate security; and,
3. thus, causing the tenant/visitor to be assaulted, raped or otherwise injured.
Proving that the apartment complex knew about the other crimes or of any dangerous conditions on the property can be difficult. Eye witnesses, employee statements and crime reports are necessary to prove knowledge and liability. Although some information can be obtained through presuit investigation, a lot of information might not be available until a lawsuit is filed and the parties engage in a process of exchanging information known as discovery.
If knowledge is proven, then the victim still must show that the apartment complex or other property owner did not take measures to secure the premises and if it did, then the crime could have been prevented. Some things that property owners can do to try to prevent crime are put up fencing, hire security personnel, install cameras, and install lighting on the premises.
Because holding property owners liable for crimes in Georgia is difficult, it is normally only economical to bring lawsuits where victims have been severely injured, raped, or killed.
If you have any questions about how to bring a claim against an apartment complex or other property owner for negligent and inadequate security in Georgia, please call Atlanta injury attorney Betty Nguyen Davis at 404-593-2620.