Seattle residents are familiar with the city’s commitment to safety and accountability, and the recent enactment of HB 2118 reflects this dedication. This legislation, which imposes stringent requirements on firearm dealerships, has far-reaching implications, including its potential impact on premises liability claims.
Our premises liability attorney at Bernard Law Group in Seattle is here to explain how HB 2118 can affect your Seattle premises liability claim.
HB 2118 and Its Impact on Premises Liability Claims
HB 2118, a comprehensive legislation in Washington state, significantly regulates firearm dealerships by imposing strict requirements. The changes implemented by House Bill 2118 can dramatically impact a victim’s ability to file a premises liability claim after being harmed.
Enhanced Security Measures
HB 2118 mandates firearm dealerships to implement specified security features, including alarm systems, safe storage practices, and surveillance systems. These enhanced security measures promote public safety and have implications for premises liability claims.
The surveillance footage and records generated by enhanced security measures can serve as crucial evidence for plaintiffs and defendants in premises liability claims. Plaintiffs can use this evidence to demonstrate negligence or inadequate security on the part of the dealership. At the same time, defendants can showcase their adherence to security protocols and the absence of negligence.
Liability Insurance Requirement
One of the most significant aspects of HB 2118 is the requirement for firearm dealerships to carry a general liability insurance policy with a minimum coverage of $1 million per incident. This requirement protects businesses from financial liabilities and has implications for premises liability claims.
The liability insurance requirement also benefits injured parties by providing them with a recourse for seeking compensation for damages. When someone sustains injuries or suffers losses due to negligence or unsafe conditions on the premises, they can file a claim against the gun dealership’s liability insurance policy. The insurance coverage can compensate for emotional distress, medical costs, lost wages, and other damages incurred due to the incident. This ensures injured parties can access financial resources to help them recover and rebuild their lives.
Compliance and Certification
HB 2118 also mandates dealerships to certify compliance with licensing requirements in writing, under penalty of perjury. This certification underscores the importance of adherence to safety protocols and regulatory standards.
Failure to comply with HB 2118 mandates can weaken a dealership’s defense in premises liability claims and strengthen the plaintiff’s case. If a plaintiff can demonstrate that the dealership failed to certify compliance with safety protocols or regulatory standards, it may be easier to establish a negligence case. The lack of certification may be interpreted as evidence of the dealership’s disregard for safety measures, thereby increasing the likelihood of liability findings against the business.
Law Enforcement Oversight
The legislation authorizes law enforcement agencies to investigate breaches of licensing conditions, providing additional oversight and accountability. This provision ensures that firearm dealerships adhere to the requirements outlined in HB 2118 and maintain a safe and secure environment for customers and employees.
With premises liability claims, the involvement of law enforcement agencies can provide independent verification of the circumstances surrounding an incident, facilitating the resolution of legal disputes.
HB 2118 represents a significant step toward enhancing safety and accountability within the firearm retail industry in Seattle. However, its implications extend beyond regulatory compliance and business operations, including premises liability claims. Enhanced security measures, liability insurance requirements, compliance certification, and law enforcement oversight under HB 2118 can all influence the outcome of premises liability claims.
The Importance of Hiring an Attorney for Your Seattle Negligent Security Claim
Hiring an attorney for a negligent security claim after a premises liability accident in Washington state, especially in Seattle, is crucial for several reasons:
- Investigation: Attorneys have the resources to investigate the accident’s circumstances. This may include reviewing security footage, interviewing witnesses, and gathering evidence to support your claim.
- Determining Liability: Establishing liability in a Seattle negligent security claim
- can be challenging. An attorney can assess the situation to determine who may be responsible for the inadequate security measures that led to the accident. This could include property owners, managers, and even security companies.
- Maximizing Compensation: Your premises liability attorney in Seattle can advocate for the maximum compensation you deserve for your resulting damages by representing your interests.
- Negotiation and Litigation: Your premises liability attorney in Seattle can engage with insurance companies or opposing parties on your behalf to reach a fair settlement. If a settlement cannot be reached, they are prepared to litigate the case in court to pursue justice on your behalf.
Hiring an attorney for your Seattle negligent security claim ensures you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses. You must seek legal representation immediately to protect your rights.
Call Our Premises Liability Attorney in Seattle Now
Although HB 2118 does not go into effect until early 2025, we want injured victims in Seattle to know that our team at Bernard Law Group is here when you need us. Our premises liability attorney in Seattle can help you understand your rights, and we will fight fearlessly to protect them. If you were hurt in a premises liability accident, contact our team to schedule a free consultation to discuss your options.
