Assaulted in a Public Place? When Businesses Are Liable for Failing to Protect You
Las Vegas is known for its vibrant nightlife, world-class entertainment, and bustling crowds. From casinos and hotels to shopping centers and parking garages, people expect a certain level of safety when entering public spaces. Unfortunately, assaults can and do occur—often leaving victims with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and costly medical bills. In some cases, businesses can be held legally responsible for failing to take reasonable steps to protect patrons. This legal concept is known as negligent security. Our Las Vegas Negligent Security Attorneys at Mainor Ellis are here to help.
What Is Negligent Security?
Negligent security is a type of premises liability claim. It arises when a property owner or business fails to provide adequate security measures, and that failure results in someone being assaulted, robbed, or otherwise harmed on the premises. While no business can guarantee absolute safety, they do have a legal duty to take reasonable precautions—especially in areas where crime is foreseeable.
When Is a Business Liable?
In Nevada, a business may be held liable for an assault on its premises if:
- The crime was foreseeable: If a business is located in a high-crime area or has a history of violent incidents, it has a duty to take appropriate steps to prevent future harm.
- Security measures were inadequate: Failing to provide lighting, security cameras, trained staff, or proper door locks can all be signs of negligence.
- The business ignored warning signs: If management was aware of prior threats, reports of loitering, or escalating behavior and failed to act, they may be held accountable.
For example, if a person is attacked in a dimly lit parking garage behind a Las Vegas nightclub with no cameras or security patrols, the nightclub could be found negligent. Likewise, a casino that fails to intervene during escalating disputes among guests could be liable if someone is later assaulted.
Common Places Where Negligent Security Claims Arise
In Las Vegas, negligent security cases often arise in:
- Hotels and casinos
- Nightclubs and bars
- Concert venues
- Apartment complexes
- Shopping malls and parking lots
- Event spaces and stadiums
These venues can be held liable when they cut corners on safety or fail to respond to patterns of criminal activity.
What Should You Do If You’re Assaulted?
If you’ve been assaulted in a public place:
- Get to a safe location and call 911 immediately.
- Seek medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor.
- Document everything—take photos, get witness contact info, and ask for a copy of any incident report.
- Contact an experienced personal injury attorney who can evaluate whether you have a valid negligent security claim.
Mainor Ellis Can Help
At Mainor Ellis, we believe that no one should suffer due to a business’s failure to prioritize safety. If you’ve been assaulted in a public place in Las Vegas, our experienced team will investigate the circumstances, identify all liable parties, and fight for the compensation you deserve—including medical expenses, lost income, and emotional distress.
Call us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward justice and healing.
Source:
leg.state.nv.us/nrs/nrs-041.html
