KTLA news has reported the family of Bryan Stow has filed a lawsuit against the Dodgers organization earlier this week.  The lawsuit alleges that security cutbacks and antiquated facilities at Dodger Stadium contributed to the severity of the injuries Bryan Stow sustained in the attack.  The complaint filed with the court sets forth claims for negligence, premises liability, negligent hiring and intentional infliction of emotional distress.  Since the attack on Stow on March 31st, security has been tightened at Dodger Stadium, and LAPD stepped up its presence at the game, with officers on foot, horseback, bikes and Segways.

See the KTLA news story HERE.

In the civil case filed o n behalf of Bryan Stow, it must be shown by the plaintiff that the Dodgers organization was negligent, not just that the incident took place on Dodger Stadium property.  Evidence relevant to the negligence claim would likely include the history of violent criminal acts on the property, the training and qualifications of the security staff and the security policies and procedures implemented by the Dodgers.  In general, business proprietors (such as the Dodgers) owe a duty to their patrons to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition, and this duty includes an obligation to undertake reasonable steps to secure common areas against foreseeable criminal acts of third parties that are likely to occur in the absence of such precautionary measures.  Additionally, even if you assume the amount of security provided to be adequate in a particular situation, then the question becomes whether the security employees acted reasonably under the circumstances.  In the Stow case, the discovery conducted by the parties (the process through which the parties to a lawsuit formally exchange information and evidence) will enable both sides to determine whether the claims are meritorious and if the case should be resolved without the need for a jury trial.

Compensation for the victims of violent crimes that occur on a business owner’s property should be an important concern for all Californians.  When a business proprietor invites guests onto their property they should be held accountable if they fail to provide a reasonably safe environment, especially when they can prevent or effectively intervene in a criminal assault.  An Orange County personal injury attorney with experience at handling such cases can make a fair assessment of these claims.  Mr. Ralph has 20 years of experience handling personal injury and premises liability cases, including just this type.  Mr. Ralph can be reached at 714-919-4415 for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Have you or a family member been a victim of a violent crime that occurred at a business establishment?

  • Nothing in this post is intended to suggest the Law Offices of Paul W. Ralph currently represents anyone involved in the news story above.  This posting should not be construed as legal advice or an opinion on the merit of any particular matter.  A consultation is the best way to obtain an assessment of your potential case.