Are bars in Arizona liable if they overserve people who become drunk and cause accidents?
In Arizona, bars and other establishments that serve alcohol can be held liable if they overserve patrons who then leave the establishment and cause an accident. These types of cases are known as “dram shop” cases, and they involve proving that the establishment was negligent in continuing to serve alcohol to an intoxicated individual.
At Bache & Lynch, we have extensive experience handling dram shop and liquor liability cases and are here to help you understand your rights if you’ve been affected by such an incident.
What Is a Dram Shop Case?
A dram shop case refers to a legal claim against a bar, restaurant, or other establishment that serves alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person who then causes a collision or other injury. The term “dram shop” comes from old English law, where alcohol was sold by the dram, a small unit of liquid. Today, these laws are in place to encourage responsible serving practices and to hold establishments accountable for their role in preventing alcohol-related accidents.
How Do I Prove Liability in a Dram Shop Case?
To successfully hold a bar or establishment liable in a dram shop case, certain elements must be proven:
- Visible Intoxication: It must be shown that the patron was visibly intoxicated at the time they were served more alcohol. This could include signs like slurred speech, unsteady movement, or belligerent behavior. Witness testimony, surveillance footage, and other evidence can be crucial in demonstrating this.
- Overserving: The establishment must have continued to serve alcohol to the patron despite their apparent intoxication. This shows negligence on the part of the establishment in failing to follow responsible serving practices.
Gathering the necessary evidence is a critical step in building a strong dram shop case. At Bache & Lynch, we have the experience needed to thoroughly investigate these cases and present compelling evidence to support our clients’ claims.
Schedule A Free Consultation With An Experienced Dram Shop Attorney and Drunk Driving Liability Lawyer.
At Bache & Lynch, we take alcohol liability cases seriously because we understand the significant impact that alcohol-related accidents can have on victims and their families. We work diligently to hold negligent establishments accountable and to secure the full compensation our clients deserve for their injuries and losses.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident caused by an intoxicated driver who was overserved at a bar or restaurant, you have the right to seek compensation. Bache & Lynch is here to help you navigate the legal complexities of a dram shop case and fight for justice on your behalf. Call our office today at 520-293-5300 to schedule a free consultation with an experienced dram shop lawyer.