How Hotels In Michigan Can Be Held Liable For Negligent Security
Hotels have a legal duty to provide a safe environment for their guests and visitors. When they fail to take reasonable steps to prevent crime, they can be held responsible for injuries that occur due to negligent security. Many hotel-related crimes, including assaults, robberies, and break-ins, happen because of inadequate security measures. Michigan law allows victims to seek compensation if a hotel’s negligence contributed to their injuries. These cases can be complex, as they require proving that the hotel knew or should have known about the security risks and failed to act. We work to hold negligent hotels accountable and help injured victims recover the compensation they deserve.
Understanding Premises Liability And Negligent Security In Michigan
Under MCL 554.139, property owners, including hotels, must keep their premises in a condition that is reasonably safe for guests. This means that hotels must take reasonable precautions to prevent foreseeable criminal activity. If a hotel fails to provide proper security and a guest is injured as a result, the hotel may be held liable under Michigan premises liability law.
Negligent security falls under premises liability, which holds property owners responsible when dangerous conditions lead to harm. Hotels can be found negligent if they fail to:
- Provide adequate lighting in parking lots and hallways
- Install and maintain working security cameras
- Hire properly trained security personnel
- Secure entrances and exits
- Respond to known threats or prior criminal activity
When a hotel fails to meet these standards, guests who are harmed by criminal activity may have the right to pursue legal action.
How To Prove A Hotel Was Negligent In A Security-Related Injury
Holding a hotel liable for negligent security requires proving several key elements:
- The Hotel Owed A Duty Of Care – Hotels have a legal responsibility to keep their property safe for guests and visitors.
- The Hotel Failed To Provide Adequate Security – A lack of security measures, broken locks, insufficient lighting, or failure to warn guests about known dangers may constitute negligence.
- The Injury Was Foreseeable – If the hotel had prior knowledge of criminal activity in the area or previous security breaches, they may be held responsible for failing to take preventative action.
- The Lack Of Security Led To The Injury – The victim must show that the hotel’s negligence directly contributed to the harm suffered.
Common Types Of Hotel Negligent Security Cases
Hotels can be held responsible for a variety of security-related incidents, including:
- Assaults And Attacks – When a lack of security allows criminals to harm guests, the hotel may be liable.
- Theft And Robbery – If a hotel fails to secure guest rooms, parking lots, or other areas, they may be responsible for stolen property or injuries caused during a robbery.
- Room Break-Ins – Hotels must ensure doors, locks, and security systems work properly to prevent unauthorized access.
- Parking Lot Crimes – Poorly lit or unmonitored parking lots are frequent sites of theft, assault, and other criminal activity.
A history of similar incidents at the hotel or within the surrounding area can strengthen a case against the property owner.
What Damages Can Victims Recover In A Negligent Security Claim?
Victims of hotel-related crimes may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses, including hospital bills and rehabilitation costs
- Lost wages from missed work
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage or loss
Under MCL 600.5805, victims generally have three years from the date of injury to file a premises liability claim. Failing to take legal action within this timeframe can result in losing the right to seek compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hotel Negligent Security Cases
How Do I Know If A Hotel Is Responsible For My Injuries?
Hotels can be held responsible if their failure to provide adequate security leads to your injury. If there was a history of criminal activity in the area, broken security features, or a lack of safety measures, the hotel may be liable. Speaking with an attorney can help determine if you have a case.
What Should I Do If I Am Attacked Or Injured At A Hotel Due To Negligent Security?
Report the incident to hotel management and request a written report. Call the police and document everything, including photos of the scene, any security failures, and your injuries. Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor. Gathering evidence as soon as possible strengthens a potential claim.
Can A Hotel Be Held Responsible If Someone Else Commits A Crime On Their Property?
Yes, hotels can be liable if they fail to take reasonable steps to prevent foreseeable crimes. If a hotel knew or should have known about security risks and did not act, they may be responsible for injuries resulting from criminal activity on their property.
What Are Some Examples Of Negligent Security At Hotels?
Negligent security includes broken door locks, poorly lit parking lots, untrained security staff, a lack of surveillance cameras, and failure to warn guests about known dangers. If these factors contribute to an injury, the hotel may be held liable.
How Long Do I Have To File A Lawsuit Against A Hotel For Negligent Security?
Under MCL 600.5805, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Michigan is three years from the date of the injury. If a lawsuit is not filed within this period, the victim may lose the right to seek compensation.
Can I Sue A Hotel If I Was Assaulted In The Parking Lot?
Yes, if the assault happened due to inadequate lighting, a lack of security personnel, or other preventable factors, the hotel may be responsible. Proving that the hotel failed to take reasonable security measures is key in these cases.
How Can I Prove A Hotel Was Aware Of Security Risks?
Previous criminal incidents, guest complaints, and local crime reports can show that a hotel knew about security risks but failed to address them. If a hotel ignores warnings or fails to improve safety, it may be liable for injuries.
What If The Hotel Claims They Had No Control Over The Crime?
Hotels often argue that they are not responsible for crimes committed by third parties. However, if they fail to provide reasonable security, they can still be held liable. Courts look at whether the crime was foreseeable and whether the hotel took steps to prevent it.
How Much Compensation Can I Recover From A Negligent Security Lawsuit Against A Hotel?
Compensation depends on the severity of injuries, medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering. Serious injuries typically result in higher settlements or verdicts. An attorney can evaluate the case and help determine potential compensation.
Contact Ravid & Associates, P.C. For Legal Help With Negligent Security Claims
Hotels have a responsibility to keep guests safe, and when they fail, victims have the right to seek justice. Holding negligent hotels accountable not only helps victims recover but also encourages better security practices to prevent future harm. If you or a loved one suffered an injury due to a hotel’s lack of security, we can help.
Call our negligent security lawyers at Ravid & Associates, P.C. at (248) 948-9696 to schedule a consultation. We represent clients in Detroit and throughout Michigan from our office in Southfield. Our team is ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.
