Convenience stores are a regular stop for many people — whether for fuel, snacks, or other essentials. But unfortunately, they are also common locations for violent crimes in Texas, particularly in urban areas like Houston. Robberies, assaults, and shootings frequently occur at or near convenience stores, especially during late-night hours.
Under Texas premises liability law, convenience store owners have a legal duty to provide a reasonably safe environment for their customers. When a store fails to implement basic security measures — and a customer is injured or killed as a result — the property owner may be held legally responsible.
Why Are Convenience Stores Frequent Crime Locations?
Convenience stores are often targeted for crime because:
- They operate late at night or 24 hours a day
- They handle cash transactions, making them attractive robbery targets
- Customers are often distracted while fueling vehicles or entering the store
- Poor lighting and isolated locations increase danger
- Many operate in high-crime areas but fail to provide adequate security
Business owners cannot simply ignore these risks. If violent crime is foreseeable — and nothing is done to protect customers — liability may follow.
The Legal Duty of Convenience Store Owners
Prudent convenience store owners should:
- Regularly inspect the property for hazards
- Implement reasonable security measures based on the property’s location and crime history
- Respond to previous incidents or customer complaints about safety
- Provide adequate lighting, working security cameras, and secure access points
Neglecting these basic duties can create an environment where crime is more likely to occur — and where customers are left vulnerable.
Common Security Failures at Convenience Stores
Negligent security claims against convenience stores often involve:
Poor Lighting
Dark parking lots or unlit fuel pump areas create opportunities for attacks.
No Security Cameras
Inoperable or nonexistent surveillance cameras make it easier for criminals to act — and harder for victims to prove their case.
No Security Personnel
In high-crime areas, convenience stores should consider on-site security guards or patrol services.
Failure to Respond to Prior Incidents
If a store has a history of robberies, assaults, or other crimes, failing to implement security upgrades can lead to liability.
Unsafe Store Layout
Blocked windows, blind corners, or isolated ATM machines can increase risks.
What Types of Incidents Can Lead to a Negligent Security Claim?
Victims may have a valid claim if they are injured due to:
- Armed robbery inside or outside the store
- Assault or battery in the parking lot
- Carjacking at the pump
- Sexual assault in a poorly monitored area
- Shootings due to failure to control access to the property
What Compensation Can Victims Recover?
Victims of violent crime at convenience stores may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills and hospital expenses
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and PTSD
- Long-term disability or disfigurement
- Wrongful death damages for surviving family members
What Should You Do If You Are Injured at a Convenience Store?
- Call 911 immediately and report the incident.
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible.
- Ask store employees for an incident report.
- Take photographs of the scene, lighting conditions, and security measures (or lack thereof).
- Get the contact information of any witnesses.
- Contact an experienced premises liability attorney.
Contact Spagnoletti Law Firm for Help With Negligent Security Claims
At Spagnoletti Law Firm, our injury lawyers can represent victims of violent crime and unsafe conditions. If you were injured due to a crime at a convenience store — whether inside the store or in the parking lot — we can help. We thoroughly investigate every case, gather critical evidence, and hold property owners accountable for failing to protect their customers.
📞 Call us today at 713-804-9306 for a free consultation with our accident lawyers. There are no legal fees unless we recover compensation for you.
Your safety matters. Businesses that profit from customer traffic must also protect their customers. Let us help you seek justice.