It’s supposed to be your safe place. You lock your doors, trust your neighbors, and expect that your apartment complex will take basic steps to protect you. But when crime happens inside your home, the sense of security you once had can shatter in an instant.
For many apartment residents in Dallas and Fort Worth, becoming the victim of assault or another violent act leaves them wondering what to do next and how to protect their rights.
Step 1: Get to a Safe Place
Your priority is your immediate safety. If you are still in danger, leave your apartment as quickly and safely as possible. Get to a neighbor’s unit, a common area with people around, or even your car if you can do so without risking further harm.
Once you’re safe, stay put until help arrives. Moving around the scene too much could disrupt important evidence that police will need to document.
Step 2: Call 911 Immediately
Even if you aren’t sure how serious the situation is, you should always call the police after a crime. Reporting the incident creates an official record and ensures you get access to emergency services if needed.
When officers arrive, give them a clear, factual description of what happened. Point out any damaged doors, broken locks, or areas where security was lacking. In apartment complexes throughout Dallas-Fort Worth, police reports can play a significant role in later determining whether a property owner failed to provide reasonable protection.
Step 3: Seek Medical Attention
If you are injured—even if the injuries seem minor—get medical care right away. Some injuries, like concussions or internal trauma, may not show symptoms immediately.
In addition to protecting your health, seeing a doctor documents your injuries in medical records. These records may be critical if you later pursue a claim for damages related to negligent security.
Step 4: Document Everything
If it’s safe to do so, take photos of the scene before anything is cleaned up or repaired. This might include:
- Broken locks, windows, or doors
- Poor lighting in hallways or parking lots
- Lack of security cameras in common areas
Also, write down everything you remember about the crime as soon as possible. Over time, memories fade, and small details could make a big difference.
Save all police reports, medical bills, communications with apartment management, and anything else related to the incident.
Step 5: Notify Apartment Management in Writing
Notify your landlord or apartment management team about the crime in writing. Describe what happened, where it happened, and when.
While some apartment complexes in Dallas and Fort Worth have protocols for handling crime reports, others may try to downplay the situation. Having a written record ensures you can show that the property owner was informed.
Step 6: Know Your Rights
If your apartment complex had a history of crime, broken security measures, or failed to take reasonable steps to protect residents, you may have a claim against the property owner under negligent security laws. Victims of violent crimes in apartment complexes may be entitled to seek compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
Holding landlords and property managers accountable can also help protect future residents from similar harm.
Legal Help for Apartment Crime Victims in Dallas-Fort Worth
If you were hurt or traumatized because of poor security in your Dallas-Fort Worth apartment complex, turn to Rochelle McCullough. We are here to be your voice and help you fight for justice and compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation.