Retail stores and other businesses in Dallas-Fort Worth have a legal duty to maintain a safe environment for customers, employees, and visitors. When they fail to take reasonable security measures, violent crimes such as robbery, assault, and shootings can occur. Victims of these crimes may have legal options to pursue compensation if negligent security contributed to the attack.
Rochelle McCullough LLP is committed to holding businesses accountable for failing to protect their patrons. If you or a loved one has been injured due to negligent security at a retail location, we can help. Contact us today for a free consultation.
What Constitutes Negligent Security in Texas?
Property owners, including retail store owners, are responsible for taking reasonable steps to prevent foreseeable crimes. However, business owners are generally not liable for every crime that occurs on their property—especially if the attack was random or targeted. To bring a successful negligent security claim, a victim must show that:
- The crime was foreseeable based on prior incidents or other risk factors.
- The business failed to take reasonable steps to protect customers.
- The lack of security measures contributed to the crime.
Common Security Failures at Retail Locations
When a business fails to implement basic security measures, it increases the risk of criminal activity. Some common security failures that may lead to assaults, robberies, and other crimes include:
- Inadequate or missing lighting in the store or parking lot
- Poor lighting in stairwells or entryways
- Broken fences, gates, or locks
- Lack of security cameras or malfunctioning equipment
- No security personnel in high-risk areas
- Untrained or unqualified security guards
- No alarm systems or malfunctioning alarms
- Unsecured doors or entry points
- Failure to train employees on responding to criminal activity
How Crime Affects Customers and Employees
Violence at businesses can cause severe harm to both customers and employees. Studies show that:
- Customers are more likely to be injured in violent crimes at bars, restaurants, convenience stores, and motels.
- Employees face higher risks of injury in liquor stores, grocery stores, and small retail locations.
- Robberies are the leading cause of workplace homicides, accounting for more than 60% of annual worker deaths.
- Small businesses, such as liquor stores and convenience stores, are particularly vulnerable to robbery-related violence.
Proving Liability in Negligent Security Cases
To recover compensation, victims must prove that the business owner’s failure to provide adequate security contributed to the crime. This requires showing:
- The business owed a duty of care – Property owners are responsible for maintaining reasonably safe conditions for customers.
- The property owner was negligent – Security measures were insufficient, creating a dangerous environment.
- The negligence led to the crime – The lack of security made the business an easy target.
- The victim suffered damages – The crime resulted in physical injuries, financial losses, or emotional trauma.
Foreseeability of Crime
One of the most critical factors in a negligent security claim is whether the crime was foreseeable. Courts may consider:
- The crime rate in the surrounding area
- Prior incidents of robbery, assault, or other violent crimes on the property
- The business’s failure to respond to previous criminal activity
Even if similar crimes have not occurred on the premises before, a business owner may still be held liable if they should have known that the risk of crime was high.
What to Do If You’ve Been Injured in a Crime at a Business
If you’ve been assaulted, robbed, or otherwise harmed at a retail location, taking the right steps can strengthen your case:
- Call 911 – Report the incident and request medical assistance if needed.
- Document the scene – Take photos, gather witness contact information, and keep a record of what happened.
- Seek medical attention – Even if your injuries seem minor, medical records can serve as important evidence.
- Save all documentation – Keep police reports, medical bills, and other records related to the crime.
- Contact a premises liability attorney – A lawyer can evaluate your case and help you determine the best course of action.
How Rochelle McCullough Can Help
If you or a loved one has been injured due to a crime at a business in Dallas-Fort Worth, Rochelle McCullough is ready to fight for your rights. We:
- Investigate the incident and gather evidence to prove liability
- Hold negligent business owners accountable for failing to provide adequate security
- Fight for compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress
You deserve justice. Let us help you take the next step toward recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your legal rights and options.
We extend our personal injury legal services to help clients throughout Texas, including Dallas, & Fort Worth, as well as in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Committed to advocating for your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.