There are laws that can hold other parties liable besides the driver that caused the accident. While the applicability of these laws is limited, it is still important to know all the liability options if you are injured in a drunk driving accident.
In Texas, attorneys can sue any drunk driver by filing a complaint that proves the driver is liable. This complaint begins the lawsuit by listing the damages and losses that the client has endured. Attorneys use this outline as a structure to build a negligence case.
There are separate laws that have been put in place that can hold another party liable besides the driver. The social host and Dram Shop law focus on the venue and other individuals that supplied the driver with alcohol.
The social host law deals with an individual that hosted an event at a private residence or an event that served alcohol. This law states that the person serving the alcohol must be 21 years of age and the defendant who caused the damage must be under the age of 18. Also, the law requires that the person serving the alcohol cannot be the individual’s legal parent or guardian, and the adult must know the alcohol is being served. Overall, an attorney will only use the social host law if the teenager is the individual that caused the accident.
The Dram Shop law states that commercial venues, bars, and restaurants can be held liable after a drunk driving incident occurs. This law is also limited because it can only be imposed if it is proven that the venue was aware of the potential dangers that the individual could cause. The venue cannot be held liable for the entire accident, only for over-serving the person that caused the damages.
What to do if you have been injured in an accident in Texas
Car accidents can happen to anyone and can leave you with substantial medical bills and property damage. It is critical to get legal and medical help as soon as possible. An attorney can get you the compensation you deserve and help you get your life back on track. The Accident Injury Legal Center can help you get in contact with an attorney that is qualified to help you with your case.
Call the Accident Injury Legal Center at 1-866-255-4870.
Resource
Charles, P. (2022c, May 18). When Can Someone Face Liability for Serving Alcohol Resulting in a Drunk Driving Accident? Legal Reader. Retrieved May 19, 2022, from https://www.legalreader.com/when-can-someone-face-liability-for-serving-alcohol-resulting-in-a-drunk-driving-accident/