Can I Sue McDonald’s For Negligent Security in New York?

New York has certainly seen its fair share of random attacks over the years, and the most recent incident has left one person with stab wounds in both legs. Three suspects are now in custody, but New Yorkers are not confident about their safety. The fact that this attack occurred at Times Square is particularly disconcerting, as this is one of the most heavily policed areas on the planet. This attack also occurred directly outside a McDonald’s location, prompting many to ask whether the restaurant should have had better security. Can you sue McDonald’s for negligent security in Manhattan?

Machete Attack at Times Square McDonald’s 

In May of 2024, New York Police announced that a man had been stabbed in both legs by machete-wielding assailants at a McDonald’s in Times Square. The victim’s condition later stabilized at a nearby hospital, but the attack sent shockwaves throughout New York City. Authorities say that the violence occurred due to a dispute between scam artists in Manhattan, and that these individuals were fighting over “turf” for their crimes. This scam allegedly involved selling worthless compact discs to unsuspecting tourists.

McDonald’s Has Been Sued for Negligent Security Before 

The attack occurred either within the McDonald’s restaurant or immediately in front of it. Either way, the attack seems to have occurred on franchise property, which potentially provides a pathway for a negligent security lawsuit. Even if this particular attack does not lead to legal action, it could create a “criminal history of violence” for the McDonald’s – forcing them to hire security guards in the future. If they do not take reasonable steps to address the violent criminal activities on their premises, they may be held liable by future victims.

It would not be the first negligent security lawsuit McDonald’s has ever seen. In 2023, a family sued another McDonald’s location after a fatal stabbing on the restaurant’s premises. In 2014, McDonald’s was sued for negligent security for another death – with the family successfully receiving $27 million. In this case, the victim had been struck repeatedly over the head by an unruly mob at a Texas McDonald’s.

Key Takeaways 

• McDonald’s has been sued by stabbing and assault victims in the past
• The recent machete attack in Times Square was related to scam activities
• Public Safety Officers patrol Times Square 24 hours per day

Find a Premise Liability Lawyer in Manhattan 

If you’ve been searching for an experienced New York premise liability lawyer, look no further than Cohan Law, PLLC. Over the years, we have helped numerous injured plaintiffs file premise liability lawsuits against negligent property owners. Fast food restaurants are becoming magnets for violent crimes in New York, and they must take reasonable steps to ensure the safety of their patrons. To find out whether a negligent security lawsuit is possible, book a consultation at your earliest convenience.

Source:

nypost.com/2024/05/30/us-news/1-injured-in-possible-machete-attack-at-times-square-mcdonalds/