How to Hold Casinos Accountable for Negligence

October 11, 2023

How Can I Hold Casinos Accountable for Negligence?

Casinos are a popular destination for entertainment and gambling, attracting millions of visitors each year. While most people have a fun and enjoyable experience, accidents and injuries can still occur due to the negligence of the casino or its employees. If you or a loved one has suffered harm while at a casino, it's important to understand your legal rights and how to hold the casino accountable for their negligence.

What is Negligence in the Casino Context?

Negligence is a legal concept that holds individuals or entities responsible for their failure to exercise reasonable care, resulting in harm to others. In the context of a casino, negligence can arise from various situations, such as slip and falls, inadequate security leading to assaults or robberies, malfunctioning equipment, or even food poisoning from a restaurant within the casino premises. To establish a negligence claim against a casino, you must prove the following elements: 1. Duty of Care: The casino owed you a duty of care to maintain a safe environment for its patrons. 2. Breach of Duty: The casino breached that duty by failing to meet the required standard of care. 3. Causation: The casino's breach of duty directly caused your injuries. 4. Damages: You suffered actual harm or damages as a result of the casino's negligence.

What Are Some Relevant Laws?

In the state of Nevada, where many world-renowned casinos are located, the law recognizes the duty of casinos to exercise reasonable care for the safety of their patrons. Nevada follows the legal principle of comparative negligence, which means that even if you were partially at fault for your injuries, you may still be entitled to recover damages, although your compensation may be reduced proportionately. Nevada has a statute of limitations, which is the time limit within which you must file a lawsuit. In most personal injury cases, including those involving casino negligence, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the incident. Failing to file a lawsuit within this timeframe may result in your claim being barred.

What Are Some Relevant Court Cases in Nevada?

Over the years, Nevada courts have dealt with numerous cases involving casino negligence. One notable case is Hilton Hotels Corp. v. Butch Lewis Productions, where the Nevada Supreme Court held that a casino could be held liable for injuries sustained by a patron due to a fight that occurred on its premises. This case established the principle that casinos have a duty to provide adequate security to protect their patrons from foreseeable harm. Another significant case is Doud v. Las Vegas Hilton Corp., where the court held that a casino could be held liable for injuries caused by a malfunctioning slot machine. This case emphasized the duty of casinos to maintain their equipment in a safe and proper working condition. These cases, among others, serve as precedents and provide guidance for individuals seeking to hold casinos accountable for negligence in Nevada.

How Much Compensation Can I Get?

The amount of compensation you may receive in a casino negligence case depends on various factors, including the extent of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any long-term effects on your quality of life. Casinos often carry substantial insurance policies to cover potential liability for accidents and injuries. These insurance policies are designed to protect the casino's financial interests and ensure that injured parties can receive fair compensation for their damages.

Are There Any Other Related Legal Concerns?

In addition to negligence claims, other legal concerns may arise in the context of casino injuries. For example, if you were assaulted by another patron due to inadequate security, you may have a separate claim for premises liability or negligent security. Similarly, if you were served alcohol while visibly intoxicated and subsequently injured yourself or others, you may have a claim against the casino for overserving alcohol. It's crucial to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who can evaluate your case, identify all potential legal claims, and guide you through the complex legal process.

How Can an Experienced Lawyer Help?

Navigating the legal process and holding a casino accountable for negligence can be challenging without the assistance of a knowledgeable attorney. An experienced lawyer can: 1. Investigate the incident: A lawyer will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and review any available surveillance footage to build a strong case on your behalf. 2. Determine liability: Your attorney will assess the casino's duty of care, identify any breaches, and establish the causal link between the negligence and your injuries. 3. Calculate damages: A lawyer will evaluate the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any future costs associated with your injuries. 4. Negotiate with insurance companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, but an attorney can negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation. 5. Litigate if necessary: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will be prepared to take your case to court and advocate for your rights before a judge and jury. If you or a loved one has suffered harm due to casino negligence, call High Stakes Injury Law at (702) 444-3228 for a free case evaluation.