SXSW Crash Results in Premises Liability Claims

Two festival-goers have launched a $1 million premises liability lawsuit after a drunk driver crashed into a crowd at an Austin music event, killing four and injuring many more.

The victims are suing for medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering in the wake of the crash.

The collision occurred March 13, 2014, at the South by Southwest Music Festival (SXSW). The driver, Rashad Owens, was trying to escape from police when he careened around a barricade and plowed into the crowd. Four people died; Owens was convicted of capital murder and sentenced to life in prison.

Multiple people and organizations are being held liable: Owens, the man who loaned him the car, SXSW organizers, and the City of Austin. The victims allege gross negligence and premises liability.

About Premises Liability in Texas

Property owners have a legal responsibility to make sure their visitors are safe. When owners fail to keep their premises safe, are liable when people get hurt.

In this case, it is being alleged that SXSW organizers and the City failed to keep the premises safe, and are therefore liable for the injuries they suffered.

While the circumstances around this case are uncommon – drivers seldom plow into crowds on city streets – at Charles J. Argento we know that premises liability claims are all too common.

If you or your loved ones have sustained injuries on someone else’s property, you may benefit from a premises liability suit. Common incidents include:

  • Tripping on debris or objects
  • Falling down broken staircases or elevators
  • Slipping on spilled liquids
  • Falling on icy sidewalks or in poorly lit conditions
  • Injuring yourself because the property owner failed to warn you about dangerous conditions
  • Getting hit by falling objects or debris

Let our expert attorneys help you recover your lost wages or medical expenses and win compensation for your pain and suffering. We will work with experts to gather evidence, including security camera footage and witness statements; we will even recreate the incident to determine what really happened.

We want to build a solid case and win a meaningful settlement for you because we believe your health and your ability to earn a living should never be compromised by another person’s negligence.

Contact our Houston personal injury law office at (713) 225-5050 to find out how we can help you pursue a financial settlement. We speak Spanish and English, the first consultation is free, and you will only pay if we settle the case on your behalf.

Related Links:

FAQs about Premises Liability Cases
Premises Liability: Not Just Slip-and-Fall Incidents
Texas Roadhouse Named as Defendant in Premises Liability Lawsuit
Texas Premises Liability Case Continues
Avoiding Slip-and-Fall Accidents When Holiday Shopping

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