Fort Lauderdale Bar Shooting Attorney
Alcohol and firearms do not mix, and it is this concept that moved Florida lawmakers to enact legislation aimed at preventing impairment from turning into deadly bar shootings. State law prohibits individuals from bringing a handgun or concealed weapon into an establishment licensed to serve alcohol, and an offender could be charged with a misdemeanor for violating the statute. However, the potential for punishment does not deter all from criminal acts. Individuals bent on violence can cause serious injuries to tavern patrons, especially when the owners do not take proper precautions to prevent bar shootings.
If you were hurt or lost a loved one under such circumstances, it is reassuring to know that Florida law provides you with options under premises liability concepts. The legal process can be complicated, so trust Boone & Davis, Attorneys at Law to pursue a negligent tavern owner and get the compensation you deserve as a victim. Please contact us to schedule a free consultation with a Fort Lauderdale bar shootings attorney who can provide details. You can also check out some background information about your rights.
Bar Shootings and Florida Premises Liability Laws
There is no doubt that an assailant commits a crime by carrying a firearm into a bar AND by shooting an innocent victim. While it may bring closure to know that the offender faces punishment, the outcome of a criminal case does not compensate the injured victim. Instead, you may have a civil claim under the concept of premises liability, a subset of which is negligent security. To recover compensation, you must prove:
- The owner or party in control of the bar had a duty to ensure that the premises is reasonably safe and free from foreseeable harm;
- That party breached the legal duty of care by not implementing adequate protections to prevent a bar shooting;
- The breach of duty was the direct cause of the incident in which you were injured; and
- You suffered losses because of being hurt.
Steps in the Legal Process After a Bar Shooting
When you have a civil claim based upon negligent security, your first step is usually filing a claim with the tavern’s insurance company. Your rights may seem clear, but keep in mind that the insurer has its own financial interests in mind. The claims adjuster may respond with a lowball counteroffer to settle or deny your claim entirely. When the insurance company refuses to pay fair compensation, you may need to take the next step by suing in court.
Our Fort Lauderdale bar shootings attorneys at Boone & Davis will support you throughout the legal process. It is our goal to ensure you receive full monetary damages for your losses, including medical costs, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and many more.
A Fort Lauderdale Bar Shootings Lawyer Will Guide You Through the Process
For more information about your legal remedies under Florida negligent security laws, please contact Boone & Davis, Attorneys at Law today. You can call 954-566-9919 or visit our website to set up a no-cost case review with a Broward County bar shootings attorney.
