MANAGERIAL PERSPECTIVE

In the case of the man being shot in the parking lot, it is likely that the crime could have been prevented by a number of means. Even though it would likely require an expansion of staff, porters could have been provided to meet all hotel patrons in or walk them to their cars in the parking lot or garage. Alternatively, they could have secured the parking lot itself with a controlled access entry and a gatekeeper, ensuring that robbers would at the very least have a difficult time gaining access.

Another possibility, although somewhat unrealistic in terms of continuing business, would be to warn those who book rooms that the parking lot is dangerous and is used at the patron's own risk. This would, however, doubtless cause decreased patronage and eventually the closing of the hotel. In addition,...

It is imperative, therefore, for a hotel in such circumstances to take whatever staff and facilities steps are necessary to ensure that the patrons are safe in all locations on the property, even at some increased cost without increased revenues.
References

DePasquale, S. & J.E. Osborn. (1997, June) A hotel's exposure to costly negligent security claims is controllable. Security Management, 41(6), p. 36+. Retrieved 23 Oct. 2005 from

ORIGINAL ARTICLE:

No Room for Liability: A Hotel's Exposure to Costly Negligent Security Claims Is Controllable.

by John E. Osborn, Sal