A drunk driver generates a very dangerous condition on the roadways. Whether they are just over the limit or are double the legal limit, that driver chose to consume alcohol and get behind the wheel of a vehicle. Nonetheless, it is questioned whether a person who is intoxicated is fully aware of their actions when it comes to continuing their consumption of alcohol.
Dram shop liability
If a bar owner, alcohol retailer or social hosts observes the intoxication of an individual when they sell or serve them alcohol, this could give rise to the question of liability. In other words, if a drunk driving accident occurs in Georgia, could they face liability for the accident?
The simple answer to this question is yes; however, this is not applicable in all situations. Based on dram shop laws in the states that is a person knowingly sells, furnishes or serves alcohol to a person that is noticeably intoxicated, this person may face liability for injuries resulting from the intoxication their acts directly contributed to.
Thus, if you or a loved one are a victim of a drunk driving accident, you may be able to hold more than just the drunk driver liable for your injuries and damages. In some circumstances, you can hold a bar owner, social host or alcohol retailer liable as well.
Liability questions
At Buck Rogers Law, LLC, our law firm understands the devastation a drunk driving accident can bring to the victim and their loved ones. A serious or catastrophic injury causes more than pain and suffering, it could temporarily or permanently impact the life and health of the victim. Our experienced attorneys diligently collect and assess the evidence, helping our clients successfully prove liability through dram shop laws and recover compensation for the calculated damages.
When it comes to liability, it is important to consider the cause of the accident. While it may not be immediately apparent, when a driver at fault is determined to be intoxicated, it is important to explore how the driver got to this state of intoxication. By looking at where the drunk driver was prior to the collision and uncover their source of alcoholic beverages consumed to reach this level of intoxication, liability could go beyond just the driver.
A drunk driver crash can be an overwhelming and complex matter for those injured or harmed by the accident. As such, it is imperative that you fully explore your rights and options when it comes to holding the parties at fault liable for your injuries and damages.