Can You Sue If You’re in a Crowd and Someone Tries to Ram You with Their Car?

On the night of July 21, 2025, tragedy struck East Hollywood, Los Angeles. Outside the Vermont Hollywood nightclub, a Nissan Versa accelerated into a crowd of partygoers, injuring more than 36 people, seven critically. Eyewitnesses say the driver had just been shot moments before the attack. Authorities believe it was intentional. The suspect is now in custody, facing multiple felony charges. 

If you were injured, or lost someone, due to a deliberate act like this, you still have rights. Here’s what California law says about vehicle-ramming incidents and what victims can do next. 

Can Victims Sue If the Driver Acted Intentionally?

Yes. Even if the driver faces criminal charges, victims can still file civil lawsuits. These claims may be based on intentional torts like assault or battery. You don’t have to wait for the criminal case to conclude. Civil lawsuits focus on compensation including medical bills, emotional trauma, and lost wages. 

What If the Driver Has No Insurance or Assets?

Even if the driver is uninsured or unable to pay, all hope is not lost. Victims may still: 

• Use uninsured motorist coverage if it applies 

• File a claim with California’s Victim Compensation Board (CalVCB) 

• Explore third-party liability, including claims against businesses, event organizers, or property owners who may have contributed to unsafe conditions 

At J&Y Law, we leave no stone unturned. We investigate every potential source of recovery. 

“With a regular car crash, you’re usually dealing with one driver and their insurer,” explains Alex Boris, a Senior Trial Attorney at J&Y Law. “In crowd cases, we’re talking about trauma that often involves criminal intent, mass injuries, and ripple effects on families and communities. That’s why we go beyond the driver. We look at property owners, security contractors, and possibly even the city.” 

Can a Business or Nightclub Be Held Responsible?

Sometimes. If a venue allows large crowds but fails to take basic safety measures – like proper lighting, security personnel, or barriers – they may be liable under California’s premises liability laws.

If your injuries occurred just outside the venue, a legal question arises: Did the business owe a duty of care to people gathering outside? In some cases, yes – especially if crowd buildup was foreseeable and the threat could have been mitigated. 

“This isn’t your typical fender-bender with an insurance adjuster and a police report,” says Boris. “When someone uses a car as a weapon, we’re in the realm of intentional harm. To find other sources of income we look for security lapses from the event. All responsible parties should be on the hook.” 

Can Multiple Victims File One Civil Case?

Absolutely. Victims can bring lawsuits individually or as part of a group action. These mass injury claims are often the most effective way to hold the responsible parties accountable and streamline legal resources. Our team can help determine the best path for your unique circumstances. 

What Should You Do If You Were Hit in a Crowd?

1. Seek immediate medical attention
   Document your injuries and follow up with specialists as needed. 
2. File a police report
   Even if it’s already a criminal investigation, ensure your personal version is on file. 
3. Preserve all evidence
   Keep your clothing, photos, videos, and contact info of witnesses. 
4. Contact an attorney experienced in mass injury and intentional torts
   These cases are complex. You need a team that understands both criminal overlap and civil strategy. 

What Rights Do Victims Have After a Vehicle-Ramming Attack?

If you were hurt in an incident like this, you may be entitled to: 

• Compensation for medical expenses 

• Lost income and future earning capacity 

• Pain and suffering 

• Emotional distress 

• Possible punitive damages for extreme recklessness or malice 

Why J&Y Law?

At J&Y Law, we win, and that’s no accident. Our attorneys have recovered millions in high-stakes injury claims and know how to handle mass injury events. 

Let us fight to protect your rights, hold reckless parties accountable, and help you recover the compensation you deserve. 

Injured in a crowd attack or reckless crash? Call (866) 584-5954 for a free consultation. You don’t have to face this alone.