Negligent Security Aboard Yachts & Boats

As with other property owners, yacht and boat owners may be held liable for failing to provide adequate security under certain circumstances. Proving legal responsibility based on negligent security aboard a yacht, cruise ship, or another vessel can be difficult. It is important to consult with an attorney to determine if you should pursue a claim for damages.

We are experienced maritime trial lawyers that have helped thousands of clients obtain compensation after being injured due to negligent security on a boat or at the marina. Our lawyers will work to pursue the largest possible recovery for you and your family. 

If you were injured aboard a yacht or another vessel, contact our office at +18446273529 to schedule a free consultation.

When Can a Boat Owner or Operator Be Held Liable for Negligent Security?

As a passenger on a boat or yacht, you expect the vessel to have adequate security to prevent theft, assault, or other crimes. When a boat owner fails to provide that security they may be held liable for injuries that result because of their negligence.

Examples of inadequate security include:

• Inadequate screening
• Failure to fix broken locks on doors
• Insufficient lighting in hallways and stairwells
• Lack of surveillance cameras
• Untrained or unsupervised crew

While not all criminal acts can be prevented, a property owner is expected to provide safeguards against those that are foreseeable. For instance, if there has been a history of criminal activity on a boat or yacht and the owner fails to take steps to prevent future crimes (such as installing working surveillance cameras or fixing broken locks) they may be held legally responsible.

What Injuries Are Caused by Negligent Security?

Inadequate security can cause a wide range of harm to passengers on ships and boats throughout Miami and South Florida.

Common injuries caused by negligent security on boats and yachts:

• Assault-related injuries. Many passengers drink alcohol throughout the voyage. Unfortunately, alcohol-related crimes including assault and battery are common without proper safety protocols in place including sufficient security staff. Brain injuries, bruising, and damage to internal organs are typical injuries resulting from an assault.
  
• Injuries related to sexual assault or rape. A lack of screening and security measures can result in unimaginable harm to passengers such as injuries related to sexual assault or rape. In addition to physical injuries, sexual assault survivors often experience long-term mental health conditions including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety disorders.
• Harm due to robbery or theft. Insufficient lighting, broken locks, and inoperable security cameras may result in an uptick in robberies and theft on the vessel. When these crimes become violent, resulting injuries may include broken bones, concussions, or worse.

If you are injured by another person on a boat or yacht, you need to speak with an attorney. Depending on the circumstances of the case, you might be entitled to compensation from the perpetrator, the owner of the vessel, or another liable party.

What to Know About Proving Liability in Negligent Security Cases

The majority of negligent security claims are related to harm caused by a third party, therefore it can be difficult to prove that the lack of security on the boat, vessel, or marina, was the reason that the damage (injuries) occurred. 

Generally, a property owner including the owner of a vessel cannot be held liable for the unforeseeable criminal acts of a third party. Therefore, to prove the legal responsibility of the boat owner for negligent security, you must be able to show that the harm or crime was foreseeable. 

What Types of Evidence Can Help Prove Liability in Negligent Security Claims?

Negligent security cases often rely on evidence that shows that the property owner knew or should have known about incidents that put passengers' safety at risk. 

Evidence that may be helpful in proving liability:

• Incidents
• Surveillance footage
• Training and safety logs
• Eyewitness testimony
• Screening procedures
• Security protocols

It may be necessary to subpoena the evidence necessary to prove legal responsibility in a negligent security case. An experienced attorney will carefully review your claim and determine what information is necessary to strengthen your case. Without the help of a lawyer, it may be challenging to access the records you need to prove liability.

Injured Due to Negligent Security? Contact Our Office.

Were you or a loved one injured due to negligent security on a boat or yacht? Contact our office at +18446273529 to schedule a free case evaluation. All consultations are confidential and provided without obligation to retain our firm. 

Get the legal help you need now from award-winning maritime trial attorneys. We have secured millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements on behalf of clients throughout Miami and South Florida. Let us help you get the compensation you deserve. Call now to get started.