In Texas, business owners and property managers have a clear legal responsibility to take reasonable steps to protect customers, visitors, and residents from foreseeable harm — including violent crime. While not every crime can be prevented, there are proven security measures that property owners should implement to reduce risks and meet their duty under Texas premises liability law.
Failure to take these precautions can result in lawsuits if someone is injured or killed due to an assault, robbery, or other criminal act on the property. This article outlines the key security measures property owners should have in place — and what injured victims should know if a property was unsafe.
Why Security Measures Are Critical
Texas law requires property owners to provide a reasonably safe environment for customers and guests. When a business is located in a high-crime area, or when previous crimes have occurred nearby, the expectation for security increases.
Property owners should not wait for an attack or robbery to happen before taking action. Security isn’t just about reacting to crime — it’s about preventing it.
Essential Security Measures Businesses Should Implement
1. Adequate Lighting
Poorly lit parking lots, alleys, or stairwells are common locations for violent crimes. Proper lighting deters criminals and helps customers feel safe.
- Parking lot lighting should illuminate all areas clearly.
- Walkways and entrances should be well-lit after dark.
- Broken or non-functioning lights should be repaired immediately.
2. Security Cameras
Video surveillance is a critical tool for both crime prevention and investigation. Cameras should be placed:
- In parking lots and garages
- At entrances and exits
- Inside the business near cash registers or gathering areas
- Covering areas known for previous incidents
Inoperable or fake cameras can be used against the property owner in court.
3. On-Site Security Personnel
Depending on the location and crime history, businesses may need to hire trained security guards to patrol the property or monitor cameras. This is particularly important for:
- Apartment complexes
- Hotels and motels
- Bars and nightclubs
- Shopping malls
- Gas stations in high-crime areas
4. Controlled Access Measures
Restricting access to certain areas can prevent unauthorized individuals from entering the property.
- Apartment complexes should have working gates or controlled entry systems.
- Hotels should restrict access to guest areas.
- Businesses should have lockable doors and limit access to employee-only areas.
5. Responding to Prior Crimes or Complaints
If a property owner is aware of prior assaults, robberies, or criminal activity on their premises, they must take additional steps to protect future visitors. Ignoring crime trends or customer complaints about safety can lead to liability.
6. Employee Training
Staff should be trained on:
- How to respond to suspicious activity
- What to do in the event of a robbery or violent incident
- How to assist customers after an incident
- Reporting safety hazards or security issues promptly
What Happens When Property Owners Fail to Act?
If a property owner fails to implement these basic safety measures — especially in areas known for crime — they may be held legally responsible if someone is injured or killed due to foreseeable violence.
Victims of violent crime on unsafe property may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Wrongful death damages (in fatal incidents)
How an Attorney Can Help
Proving negligent security or unsafe premises requires experience. An attorney can:
- Investigate prior crime history at the location
- Review police reports and 911 call records
- Inspect the property for security failures
- Collect evidence such as camera footage and maintenance records
- Interview witnesses and employees
- File a lawsuit on your behalf
Contact Spagnoletti Law Firm if You Were Injured Due to Unsafe Premises
If you or a loved one has been the victim of violent crime at a business, apartment complex, hotel, or any other property in Texas, you may have legal rights.
At Spagnoletti Law Firm, we represent victims with premises liability claims throughout Houston and across Texas. We know what safety measures businesses should have in place — and we hold property owners accountable when they fail to protect their customers.
📞 Call us today at 713-804-9306 for a free consultation with our personal injury lawyers. There are no legal fees unless we win your case.
Businesses must prioritize safety. If they don’t — we’re here to help you fight for justice.