Here in Nevada, incidents happen all the time, which raises questions as to whether or not an establishment is liable for the injuries a patron may suffer while on their property. The most common premises liability claims involve slip and fall injuries, which are often the result of poorly maintained walkways, wet floors, broken stairs, and defective handrails. But there have been times where lack of security can also come into play and it can cost casinos millions.
Canterino Goes Head to Head With the Mirage Casino
It has been almost twenty years since 40-year old Joseph Canterino was initially awarded $5.8 million in a lawsuit against The Mirage Casino. In April of 1992, Canterino was walking through the hotel lobby when he was accosted and beaten in the elevator. $75,000 was stolen from him and he claims to have suffered from panic disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder ever since.
As we have seen here at Bertoldo, Baker, Carter and Smith, this type of claim is not always successful. However, Canterino’s key witness, a former Mirage housekeeper, claimed that the two suspicious men who beat Canterino had been loitering around the lobby for quite some time. Because she did not report her suspicions to the on-site security guards, the housekeeper was deemed negligent and the employer – The Mirage Casino – was held liable.
What to Do If You Are Injured on Someone’s Property
Accidents often happen when a person is not in his or her own property. The first and most important things you need to do if you are attacked or injured on another person’s property are:
- Seek Medical Attention. This may not only drastically shorten your recovery time, but it will provide documentation of your injuries and help you to receive the monetary compensation you deserve
- Write Down What Happened. As soon as you are able, begin making notes about what happened, where it happened, and who was involved. Write down any information which you feel may be important to the case, and take pictures if possible. Obtain witness information if there are any
- Seek Professional Legal Counsel. At Bertoldo, Baker, Carter and Smith our attorneys have experience in handling premises liability cases, from homeowners to properties owned and run by large organizations and corporations
