How Could a Dram Shop Law Affect My Car Accident Case?
January 24, 2014
According to Pennsylvania law, drunk drivers might not be the only ones liable for harm caused to a third party. If you suffered injuries in a car accident, our knowledgeable Philadelphia personal injury attorneys can build a strong claim on your behalf.
Pennsylvania’s “Dram Shop” law opens businesses that over-serve liquor to civil liability for damages caused by an intoxicated patron’s misconduct. So, if a customer drank heavily at a Philadelphia establishment with a liquor license, got behind the wheel and caused a car accident in which you sustained serious injuries, you could initiate legal action against both the drunk driver and the business that served the alcohol.
The dram shop statute requires businesses like the following to exercise discretion when serving customers:
- Bars
- Restaurants
- Liquor stores
The business could become liable for an impaired guest’s actions when an employee or other “agent” of the establishment serves alcohol to a customer who is visibly intoxicated. Servers, bartenders and other employees should be trained by the business owner or manager to recognize signs of visible intoxication, such as slurred speech, bloodshot eyes and loss of motor skills.
Businesses that contribute to the intoxication of their customers could face severe penalties in a civil court in the event that a patron harms a third party after leaving the premises. If you were hurt in a car accident in the Philadelphia area, our car accident lawyer can evaluate your case and determine which parties might be liable for your injuries.
Dram Shop Liability Lawyers
To find out more about how our Philadelphia car accident attorneys can help you pursue the compensation you deserve, please contact Wapner Newman or call 1-800-529-6600 (1-800-529-6600) to schedule your free consultation.