After a drunk driving accident, it is common for injured people and their families to want to hold the driver and others accountable. In Texas, and many other states, there are laws called “Dram Shop Laws” that might make bars, clubs, and restaurants responsible if they served alcohol to someone who was already drunk.
What are dram shop laws?
Dram shop laws allow injured people to hold alcohol-serving establishments responsible if they serve alcohol to an intoxicated person. Proving liability under this law requires two specific factors:
- Visible intoxication: The person was obviously drunk to the point of being a danger to themselves or others when they were served more alcohol.
- Direct link to injury: The drunk person’s actions must have directly caused the injury. For example, if the injury happened because of a drunk driving accident, their drinking must have been a major factor in causing the accident.
For victims and their families, dram shop laws provide a way to get money for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
When determining whether dram shop laws could apply in your situation, you may want to talk to an attorney who understands the complexities of Texas injury law. Not only can they help you understand whether you can hold a bar or restaurant responsible, but they can also manage the complex details while you recover.
By holding all parties accountable for a car accident – including restaurants, bars and other businesses that serve alcohol – injured people can seek justice and work towards a safer environment for all.
