Negligent Security Claims in Arkansas: When Businesses Are Liable

Learn when businesses can be held liable for negligent security in Arkansas, including foreseeability, prior crime history, and apartment complex safety.

When someone is assaulted in a parking lot, apartment complex, or retail store, the business owner may be legally responsible if they failed to provide adequate security.

These cases fall under negligent security law, a branch of premises liability.

What Is Negligent Security?

Negligent security occurs when a property owner fails to take reasonable steps to protect visitors from foreseeable criminal acts.

Examples include:

• Poor lighting in parking lots

• Broken security cameras

• Lack of security guards in high-crime areas

• Broken locks at apartment complexes

Foreseeability and Prior Crimes

A key factor in these cases is foreseeability — whether prior crimes made future incidents predictable.

Arkansas courts analyze this issue based on previous criminal activity in the area.

A leading case discussing foreseeability is:

Boren v. Worthen National Bank

In this case, the Arkansas Supreme Court examined whether a business could be liable for criminal acts committed on its premises.

Apartment Complex and Retail Store Liability

Landlords and retail businesses must:

• Maintain secure entrances

• Repair broken locks

• Provide adequate lighting

• Respond to crime patterns

Failure to act may result in liability for assault, robbery, or violent crime injuries.

Damages in Negligent Security Cases in Arkansas

Victims may recover:

• Medical expenses

• Therapy costs

• Lost wages

• Pain and suffering

• Emotional trauma

Contact Votaw Law for a Consultation

Businesses cannot ignore known safety risks. When criminal acts are foreseeable and reasonable precautions are not taken, property owners may be held accountable.