Can I Sue a Bar for Assault in NYC?

Posted on September 19, 2024 by Eric Richman, Esq.

A bar sign in NYC

Going to a bar in NYC can be an enjoyable experience when it doesn’t result in physical altercations or crime. Unfortunately, when you’ve become injured at a bar, you can be left with severe injuries and left questioning, “Can I sue a bar for assault in NYC?” The simple answer is yes. However, only a qualified attorney in the area can evaluate your case and properly advise you on your next best legal steps. 

This article will cover the topic of assault and crime that occurs in bars in NYC. We will also discuss why working with an expert attorney can help you recover your financial losses due to injuries sustained during an assault at a bar.

Liability When Assaults and Bar Fights Occur

Bars and other establishments that serve alcohol are legally obligated to maintain a safe environment for the public. In New York City, bar owners and employees can be held liable if they do not prevent foreseeable harm, such as an assault or other crime. 

They can be held liable if they fail to provide adequate security or act appropriately during an altercation or crime. However, proving liability is a complex legal matter requiring proving that the bar was negligent, that the injured party suffered damages, and that the establishment was responsible for protecting the victim.

Assault By Customers

Assaults by customers are unfortunately common in NYC bars. We all know New York is a tough place. But that shouldn’t absolve a bar owner from any blame. If you were injured due to another customer’s aggressive behavior, you might have a right to sue the establishment. However, as previously stated, it will be necessary to prove that the bar was negligent somehow. For instance, if the bar continued to serve alcohol to a visibly intoxicated and aggressive customer, failed to intervene or prevent a conflict, or did not provide adequate security, they could be held liable.

Assault By Bouncers

Bouncers are employed to uphold order and security in a bar. However, sometimes, they can overstep boundaries and cause excessive harm. Most bouncers are professional and have to deal with violence on a daily basis. However, a few are just looking for a fight. 

Bouncers must follow strict regulations and training to prevent an escalation of violence. If a bouncer was not adequately trained and used excessive force that resulted in causing harm to a customer, they could be held liable. In this situation, gathering as much evidence as possible and consulting with a legal expert who can adequately advise you on your legal rights is essential.

Filing a Personal Injury Claim for Your Losses

If you’ve suffered injuries due to an assault in a bar, filing a personal injury claim may be your best course to recover your financial losses. Working with a legal expert who can adequately advise you and ensure you get the justice and compensation you deserve is critical. 

Attempting to negotiate with insurance companies with a vested interest in denying your claim or your account of the assault is not advised. Working with a legal team can help you focus on your recovery while taking over responsibility for seeing your case through to the best possible legal outcome.

The Law Offices of Eric Richman Can Help You Recover:
  • Doctor and hospital bills
  • Future earnings potential
  • Physical therapy
  • Punitive damages
  • Physical therapy
  • Punitive damages
  • Long-term medical care
  • Emotional distress
  • Lost wages
  • Other out-of-pocket expenses

Choose an Expert Personal Injury Lawyer in New York

Filing a personal injury claim after an assault in an NYC bar can be a complex process, especially when trying to establish and prove the bar’s liability. Working with a legal expert with extensive experience with NYC law and handling these cases is essential to getting the legal outcome you deserve. 

The Law Offices of Eric Richman has over twenty-five years of experience fighting on behalf of personal injury victims in all five boroughs of New York City. So, if you’re wondering, “Can I sue a bar for assault in NYC?” we can provide you with the best legal guidance to move forward and seek justice for your injuries.

Eric Richman’s team offers compassionate, expert legal representation for the New York City Area. To learn more, contact us for a free consultation or call us at (800) 801-9655.

The information provided on this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Viewing or interacting with this content does not establish an attorney-client relationship with Eric Richman, and any communications through this platform do not constitute confidential or privileged information. For personalized legal guidance on your specific personal injury case, please contact our firm to schedule a consultation.

Contact Us Today

The Law Office of Eric Richman embraces this individualized approach. Your initial contact connects you directly with Eric, who will provide a fair, impartial case assessment. If you’re unable to travel, he’ll come to you.

In the face of life-changing injuries due to negligence, a legal team well-versed in complex personal injury cases is crucial. Reach out to the Law Office of Eric Richman to find out if we can assist.

Request a Free ConsultationDirect Dial: (212) 688-3965Toll Free: (800) 801-9655