Is a Bar Liable for Injuries Caused by an Assault?

 Posted on March 24, 2023 in Personal Injury

There is a well-established association between alcohol and aggressive behavior. One study found that 86 percent of homicides and 37 percent of assaults are carried out by individuals under the influence of alcohol. Unsurprisingly, the combination of alcohol and crowded groups of people at a bar can sometimes spell disaster.

If you were assaulted in a bar, you may be dealing with painful injuries and significant financial losses. You may be able to bring a premises liability claim against the bar and recover monetary damages for these losses.

Premises Liability Claims for Injuries Sustained in a Bar

Under the theory of premises liability, a property owner may be liable for injuries that occur on its property if it knew or should have known about a dangerous condition that caused the injury. Bars, nightclubs, restaurants, and other commercial establishments have a duty to ensure that their establishment is reasonably safe for customers. This can mean different things for different establishments. For example, a small corner bar may not have a need for bouncers or security personnel. However, a large nightclub in a high-crime neighborhood may require significant security, such as video surveillance, metal detectors, and guards.

If you were attacked by a patron at a bar, it is possible that the attack was caused by the bar's failure to keep customers safe. Overserving alcohol to visibly intoxicated guests, failing to provide adequate security, or ignoring signs of potential violence can all be evidence that a bar was negligent.

If you were the victim of an assault in a bar, you should speak with an experienced premises liability attorney. He or she can evaluate the circumstances of your case and determine whether the bar may be liable for your injuries. You may be entitled to financial compensation for your damages, including:

• Medical expenses - ER treatment, medication, ambulance transportation, and other medical needs can add up. You may be entitled to reimbursement for these expenses.

• Lost wages - If you had to take time off from work as a result of your injuries, you may be able to recover reimbursement for lost wages.

• Pain and suffering - Assault victims may be entitled to compensation for the physical, emotional, and psychological effects of their injuries.

Contact our Bensenville Premises Liability Attorneys

Businesses, including bars, have a legal duty to protect customers from foreseeable harm. Our Elmhurst personal injury attorneys are committed to holding negligent business owners accountable for injuries caused by negligent security. Call our office today at 630-274-4400 for a free initial consultation.

Source:

https://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/aa38.htm