Dram Shop Liability
A drunk driving accident is often a devastating and traumatic event for the those affected, and frequently the financial compensation available is not sufficient for hefty medical bills, damages, and pain and suffering. In many cases, liability for a drunk driving accident begins with the establishment that served the alcohol to the driver, if the alcohol was knowingly provided to a minor.
If an attorney can demonstrate that a tavern or liquor store was negligent in serving a minor who later caused damage or injury in a drunk driving accident, they can be held liable for subsequent damages. This is dictated dram shop liability laws- a dated term which refers to traditional shops in which liquor was sold in small units called drams.
Exceptions
While selling alcohol to a minor immediately opens the provider up to liability, there are exemptions in place if all the following requirements are met:
- The minor claims to be of a legal drinking age
- The minor shows documentation that confirms they are of a legal drinking age
- The minor’s appearance in not such that a reasonable person could not believe that they are of a legal drinking age
If all of these requirements are not met, both the drinking driver and the establishment which provided the alcohol can be held liable for ensuring injuries or damages related to the minor being intoxicated.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one has been victimized by a drunk driver, the experienced Stevens Point dram shop liability attorneys of Habush Habush & Rottier S.C. may be able to help. We can work to demonstrate that a tavern or liquor shop shared in liability for the accident and help you to receive the fullest compensation you are due. Call today at 800-242-2874 for a free consultation to discuss the details of your case.
