Pittsburgh Negligent Security Lawyers

Negligent Security Leading to Sexual Assault

When property owners fail to provide adequate security, innocent people can suffer life-altering consequences. One of the most devastating outcomes of negligent security is sexual assault. At Robert Peirce & Associates, P.C., our experienced Pittsburgh negligent security lawyers understand the profound trauma survivors endure, and we are committed to holding negligent property owners accountable. If you or a loved one has been sexually assaulted due to inadequate security, you may have the right to pursue compensation through a civil lawsuit.

Our firm offers compassionate, confidential legal support and aggressive representation to help you find justice and financial recovery. We serve clients across Pittsburgh, PA, and are ready to listen to your story.

To discuss your concerns about an incident of abuse or neglect with a Pittsburgh negligent security attorney, call (844) 383-0565 or contact us online. 

Common Properties with Security Measures

While any location can potentially be the site of a sexual assault, certain types of properties have a greater legal duty to provide proper security. In Pittsburgh and throughout Pennsylvania, property owners and managers of the following premises are typically expected to take steps to deter and prevent foreseeable criminal acts:

• Apartment Complexes
• Hotels and Motels
• College Dormitories and Campus Housing
• Nightclubs, Bars, and Restaurants
• Parking Garages and Parking Lots
• Hospitals and Medical Facilities
• Office Buildings
• Shopping Malls and Retail Stores
• Public Transit Stations and Bus Stops
• Event Venues and Stadiums

When these locations fail to implement adequate security—especially in high-crime areas—they can become targets for sexual predators. Victims may have grounds for a civil claim if a property owner failed to take reasonable precautions to prevent foreseeable assaults.

Common Examples of Inadequate Security

Negligent security doesn’t always mean there were no safety measures in place—it often means the existing measures were outdated, non-functional, or insufficient given the known risks. Here are some of the most common forms of inadequate security that can lead to sexual assaults:

• Broken or Unlocked Doors and Gates
• Lack of Security Guards or Staff Presence
• Malfunctioning Security Cameras or Poor Lighting
• Failure to Respond to Prior Criminal Activity
• No Background Checks for Staff or Tenants
• Inadequate Visitor Screening
• No Controlled Access in Apartment Complexes or Dorms
• Improperly Trained Security Personnel

For example, if a hotel in Pittsburgh is located in an area with a high crime rate but does not have functioning locks or video surveillance, and a guest is sexually assaulted as a result, the hotel may be liable for negligent security.

Who is Liable for Negligent Security?

In a negligent security case involving sexual assault, multiple parties may share liability, depending on the circumstances. At Robert Peirce & Associates, P.C., our Pittsburgh negligent security lawyers investigate each case thoroughly to identify all responsible parties, which may include:

• Property Owners – Owners are responsible for maintaining reasonably safe conditions.
• Property Managers – If a management company failed to implement or maintain security measures, they may be held accountable.
• Security Contractors – Private security firms may be liable for failing to properly patrol or secure a property.
• Business Operators or Tenants – In leased properties, commercial tenants (e.g., bar owners, hotel operators) may be responsible for customer safety.

To establish liability, a civil claim must demonstrate that:

1. The sexual assault occurred on property owned or controlled by the defendant.
2. The assault was foreseeable based on prior crimes, lack of security, or other warning signs.
3. The defendant failed to take reasonable security measures.
4. The plaintiff suffered harm as a result.

Negligent Security & Sexual Assault FAQs

Can I sue a property owner after a sexual assault in Pittsburgh?

Yes. If the property owner or manager failed to provide adequate security and that failure led to your assault, you may have grounds for a civil lawsuit based on premises liability and negligent security.

Is the attacker the only person responsible?

While the attacker faces criminal charges, property owners can be held civilly liable if their negligence contributed to the circumstances of the assault.

What types of damages can I recover?

You may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses
• Mental health treatment
• Pain and suffering
• Lost income or earning capacity
• Emotional distress
• Punitive damages (in certain cases)

What if I was attacked in a public place like a bus stop or train station?

Government entities may be held liable in some cases, but claims against public agencies often involve shorter filing deadlines and additional legal hurdles. It’s important to speak with a knowledgeable attorney as soon as possible.

Will I have to testify in court?

Not necessarily. Many negligent security claims settle outside of court. However, if your case proceeds to trial, your testimony may be necessary. We prepare every client thoroughly and offer compassionate support every step of the way.

How long do I have to file a claim in Pennsylvania?

The statute of limitations for most personal injury claims in Pennsylvania is two years from the date of the assault. However, special rules may apply depending on the circumstances, especially if the victim is a minor.

Why Choose Robert Peirce & Associates, P.C.?

At Robert Peirce & Associates, P.C., we believe that survivors of sexual assault deserve justice—not just in the criminal system, but in the civil courts as well. Our team of experienced Pittsburgh negligent security lawyers fights for survivors' rights and financial recovery, holding negligent property owners accountable for preventable harm.

We offer:

• Free, confidential consultations
• Trauma-informed, survivor-centered legal support
• No fees unless we win your case
• We are committed to protecting your privacy, dignity, and rights throughout the legal process.

Schedule a free consultation today by calling (844) 383-0565 and find out how we can help get the justice and compensation you deserve.