The holiday season is often filled with celebration—company parties, festive nights out, and special events held at bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. However, the legal consequences can be serious when a fun night turns violent. If someone is assaulted at a holiday gathering held on commercial property, a key legal question often arises: Can the property owner be held liable?
At DGL Attorneys at Law, we understand the complexities of premises liability law in Texas and the serious injuries that can result from assaults during the holidays. You need to know if you or someone you love has been harmed in a bar, nightclub, or similar venue.
When Property Owners May Be Liable for Assaults
Property owners and business operators in Texas have a legal duty to keep their premises reasonably safe for guests, including protecting them from foreseeable acts of violence.
Under Texas law, a property owner may be held liable for an assault if:
- The owner knew or should have known about the potential for violence (i.e., prior incidents at the venue or nearby area)
- Security measures were inadequate, such as the absence of trained security staff, cameras, or lighting
- There was negligent hiring or supervision of employees, including bouncers or bartenders
- The property owner failed to control the premises, such as allowing overcrowding or over-serving intoxicated guests
Each case depends on the specific facts, and proving liability requires a thorough investigation into the incident's circumstances.
What About the Responsibility of the Attacker?
The person who committed the assault is, of course, primarily responsible for their actions. Criminal charges may be pursued against them, and victims may seek civil damages directly. However, holding only the attacker accountable does not always provide full compensation, especially if the assailant has limited financial resources.
When a venue’s negligence contributed to the assault—such as not providing adequate security or ignoring warning signs—the property owner may share legal responsibility. This is particularly important in cases involving severe injuries, long-term trauma, or lost income.
Common Examples of Venue Negligence
At DGL, we’ve seen how negligence at bars, clubs, or event spaces can put guests at risk. Common examples include:
- Poorly lit parking lots or entrances where assaults may occur
- Understaffed events, particularly during the holidays when crowds are large
- Over-serving alcohol to aggressive patrons
- Ignoring reports of threats or disturbances on the premises
- Failing to remove an intoxicated or violent individual promptly
Holiday parties, in particular, often involve alcohol, large groups of people, and heightened emotions. Property owners must be especially vigilant during these times.
What to Do If You’ve Been Assaulted at a Holiday Event
If you were assaulted at a venue or bar, your safety and health come first. Seek medical care immediately and report the incident to law enforcement. Take photos of the scene, get witness contact information, and document anything that might support your claim, such as a lack of lighting or security.
Then, consult with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Premises liability cases involving assaults are legally complex and often require quick evidence preservation.
Atlanta Premises Liability Lawyer
Assaults at bars, clubs, and venues during the holidays are deeply traumatic—and preventable. If you believe a property owner’s negligence contributed to what happened, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, emotional distress, and more.
At DGL Attorneys At Law, we help injury victims across Texas pursue justice and hold negligent property owners accountable. We know how to investigate these cases, gather the right evidence, and advocate for your rights every step of the way. Contact us today at (770) 404-8239 to get started.