DRAM SHOP Attorneys

An intoxicated person should never  get behind the wheel of a car and attempt to drive. Drunk drivers experience slower response times and often make extremely hazardous mistakes, such as drifting into neighboring lanes, running stop lights or signs, or driving on the wrong side of the road.

But while the drunk driver is responsible for their severe lapses in judgment, they may not be the only liable party. Sometimes when an individual becomes intoxicated, the bar or restaurant that served them may also be responsible.

A “dram shop” is an older term that refers to any establishment where alcohol may be purchased. When an individual purchases alcohol from a dram shop (i.e. a bar, restaurant, or retail store), that establishment may be liable where the individual purchasing the alcohol is intoxicated and likely to operate a motor vehicle.

In order to prove liability of the seller of alcohol, certain evidence may be offered. This evidence includes:

  • Eyewitness testimonies: Other individuals at the dram shop who saw the intoxicated driver being served prior to the crash can provide testimony proving the establishment’s liability.
  • Receipts of purchase: If there are tangible records of the purchase of alcoholic beverages made prior to the accident, this can help to prove dram shop liability.
  • Surveillance footage: Video footage captured both inside and outside of the establishment at which the alcohol was served can help to prove dram shop liability.

Though a drunk driver should undoubtedly be held accountable for his or her inexcusable actions, so too should any other party that contributed to the driver’s intoxicated state. Those who serve a customer an excessive amount of alcohol or who continue to serve already intoxicated customers put the greater public at risk and must also be held responsible. An experienced dram shop attorney can help you get the compensation you are entitled to.

Damages resulting from dram shop cases may include not only compensation for medical bills, but also:

  • Lost wages
  • Pain and suffering
  • Property damage
  • Funeral costs

Dram Shop Attorneys Who Care

If you or a loved one has been injured or killed by the reckless actions of a drunk driver, it is imperative that you contact a knowledgeable and experienced dram shop attorney who will fight to get you the compensation that you deserve. The dedicated lawyers at Daggett Shuler understand the legal process and will hold drunk drivers and those who serve them responsible. To learn more or to schedule a FREE case evaluation, call us at 1-800-815-5500.

 

At Daggett Shuler, you can depend on us.