Dram Shop Laws are laws that impose civil liability for the overservice of alcohol on bar and restaurant establishments who are licensed to serve alcoholic beverages. These laws vary from state to state. In the state of Texas, Dram Shop laws hold bars and restaurants who serve alcohol liable if there was service of alcohol to a patron who is obviously intoxicated to the extent that they pose a danger to themselves or others.
Persons and entities that are licensed to serve alcohol in Texas are required by law to ensure they do not serve or sell alcohol to any individual that is obviously intoxicated. Obvious intoxication is more than showing signs of being drunk, in some cases the sheer number of drinks served to a patron can be used to prove obvious intoxication. This can be proven if the number of drinks served to the patron is in excess of the guidelines set by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (“TABC”).
When a bar or restaurant serves alcohol to an obviously intoxicated patron, they can be held civilly liable for the actions of the patron after they leave the establishment. The patron can also be held civilly and criminally liable for their actions.
For over 70 years, Abraham Watkins has successfully represented injured people and families who fall victim to catastrophes like drunk driving accidents and gross overservice. Our attorneys have the knowledge, experience, and resources necessary to obtain just compensation for our clients. If you or someone you know has been injured or killed in an accident involving alcohol overservice, it is important to understand your right to recover. Call us today at 713-222-7211 or at 1 800-870-9584 for your free consultation.