Being injured during a robbery or violent crime is a terrifying experience. Unfortunately, in cities like Houston and across Texas, these incidents happen far too often in places where customers should feel safe — gas stations, restaurants, retail stores, or apartment complexes.
Victims of violent crime often wonder — do I have any legal rights beyond the criminal case? The answer is: yes, in many situations, Texas law allows victims to bring a civil lawsuit against a business or property owner if their injuries occurred due to negligent security or unsafe premises.
Businesses Have a Legal Duty to Keep Customers Safe
Under Texas premises liability law, businesses have a duty to take reasonable steps to protect customers from foreseeable harm — including criminal acts.
This doesn’t mean every business is responsible for every crime. But when a robbery or violent act occurs in an area with a known history of crime — and the business failed to implement appropriate safety measures — the property owner may be held legally accountable.
When Can You Sue a Business After a Robbery?
To bring a successful claim, the victim must generally prove:
1. The Crime Was Foreseeable
Was there a pattern of similar crimes in the area? Did the business know about recent robberies or assaults nearby? Foreseeability is key in Texas premises liability claims.
2. The Business Failed to Provide Adequate Security
Did the property have poor lighting? Were there no working security cameras? Were doors or gates broken or left open? A lack of basic security measures often points to negligence.
3. The Victim Suffered Harm Due to the Business’s Failures
This could include physical injuries, emotional trauma, financial losses, or even wrongful death claims for surviving family members.
Common Locations for Negligent Security Claims
Robberies and violent crimes often occur in:
- Convenience stores and gas stations
- Fast food restaurants and drive-thrus
- Parking lots of retail stores or shopping malls
- Apartment complexes
- Hotels or motels
- Bars and nightclubs
- Banks or ATMs
What Compensation Is Available to Crime Victims?
Victims of crime may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (hospital bills, surgeries, therapy)
- Lost income or earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and PTSD
- Disability or long-term care needs
- Wrongful death damages (in fatal cases)
Why It’s Important to Speak to an Attorney
Businesses and insurance companies rarely admit fault after a robbery or violent crime. They may claim the incident was unforeseeable or out of their control. But a premises liability attorney can investigate thoroughly, review crime records, inspect the property, and build a strong case.
Contact Spagnoletti Law Firm for Help After a Robbery Injury
At Spagnoletti Law Firm, we represent victims of violent crime and negligent security throughout Houston and across Texas. If you were injured during a robbery or criminal act on business property, let us help you hold the responsible parties accountable.
Call us today at 713-804-9306 for a free consultation. You pay no legal fees unless we recover compensation for you.
You deserve answers. You deserve justice. We are ready to help.