Miami is internationally known to draw people from all over the world for its beaches and tropical climate. Apart from the sand and good weather, it is also a hub for nightlife. On any given night you're bound to find a jam packed bar or nightclub with people having a good time. However, it's not always fun and games.
A recent story out of Tampa highlights what unfortunately happens on a regular basis here in South Florida - a fight breaking out in a bar and someone getting seriously injured or even killed. After a fight broke out in a Tampa bar, it quickly turned deadly.
While at the bar, two men ended up in a brawl. It started off as a shoving match, but one of the men pulled out a gun and fired two shots at the victim. Although the shooter immediately fled the scene, he was later arrested. He is now charged with 2nd degree murder with a firearm.
It looks like the shooter is going to be held responsible for his actions. However, under these circumstances is it possible for a bar to be held responsible for anything? Certainly. While we're not saying that this bar in particular is liable for the events that unfolded that evening, bars, much like any other business, have a responsibility to provide adequate security for its patrons to prevent visitors from being victims of criminal activity.
In essence, landowners have a duty to ensure that their guests are not harmed by the violent acts of a third party. Some of the things courts take into account when determining whether a landowner has provided sufficient security are prior criminal acts in the area. Here, if it is shown that prior violent crimes have occurred on or near the site of this bar it would help establish a case of negligent security.
At Alvarez & Barbara, LLP, we have successfully represented clients in inadequate security cases. If you or a loved one are the victim of a violent crime on the premises of business or business operator, feel free to contact us for a free consultation.
Consider Your Options. Contact Us Today.
If you, or a loved one, have been injured while staying at a hotel, resort, in a amusement park, car accident, or assaulted, while at a hotel, nightclub, restaurant or bar, please contact us today for a free case evaluation.
Call us today toll free at 1-866-518-2913 or 305-263-7700.
About the Author - Gabriel de las Salas is an attorney with the law firm of Alvarez & Barbara, LLP. His practice is focused on general civil and commercial litigation, including personal injury, insurance claims and real estate disputes. Mr. de las Salas received his B.A., cum laude, from the University of Florida, and his J.D., from Stetson University College of Law.
