Houston Dram Shop Liability Lawyer
Alcohol is a factor in some of the most devastating personal injuries in Houston. Each year, thousands of people are severely injured in drunk driving accidents in the state. In the worst situations, these accidents are fatal for victims. Alcohol is not only a factor in car accidents, though. Slip and fall accidents, physical assaults, and even alcohol poisoning are just a few types of accidents caused by alcohol.
If you have been injured by a drunk person, you can file a claim against them for damages. You may also be able to file a claim against anyone that furnished the individual with alcohol. A Houston dram shop liability lawyer can help you claim the full damages you deserve.
What is a Dram Shop Liability Claim?
A dram shop liability claim can hold establishments such as bars, restaurants, and other businesses liable when they provide alcohol to an individual and that person then becomes involved in an accident. In order for the business to be held liable, they must supply alcohol to someone who is obviously drunk and who poses a risk to themselves or others.
The law in Texas specifically refers to “alcohol providers” as parties that could be held liable after an alcohol-related accident. While many people assume this means establishments that serve alcohol, it extends to others, as well. The law defines alcohol providers as any person or business that serves or sells alcohol using an alcohol permit or license, or anyone else that provides alcohol to an individual. Due to the fact that the law is so vague, social hosts can also be held liable if they serve alcohol to guests at a party.
Dram Shop Liability Applies to More than Car Accidents
The classic example used when explaining dram shop liability is when a motorist drives under the influence. Drunk driving is extremely dangerous behavior that takes the lives of far too many every year. When a drunk driver causes an accident that results in injury or death, the accident victim or their family can file a dram shop liability claim against anyone who furnished that individual with alcohol just before the accident. However, dram shop liability applies to more than just car accidents.
For example, if a person was over-served at a bar and then left and assaulted someone due to the effect of the alcohol, the establishment that continued to serve them could be held liable. Vandalism, property damage, acts of violence, and sex crimes are just a few types of incidents that could result in a dram shop liability claim.
Call Our Dram Shop Liability Lawyer in Houston Today
At Gilde Law Firm, our Houston dram shop liability lawyers can advise you of all your legal options after an accident so you can claim the full financial compensation you deserve. Call us today at 800-973-3106 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation with our skilled attorney and to learn more about how we can help.