Did you know that a restaurant owner or server may be held accountable for the actions of a drunk driver in Connecticut? That’s right, even though those people were not behind the wheel of the car that caused the auto accident, they still share legal liability under what is known as “dram shop” laws. Under these regulations, family members or victims themselves may seek legal recourse against an establishment that over-served a driver and indirectly caused a drunk driving accident.
So, how do you go about proving that the dram shop laws apply in your case? Our qualified attorneys can provide you with additional information, but the basics are relatively simple. First, the legal team must prove that the establishment actually sold alcohol to the drunk driver. Then, it must demonstrate that the victim suffered injury in the alcohol-related accident, and those injuries must be tied to the sale of alcohol and intoxication of the patron. Finally, it must be established that alcohol caused at least some of the third-party damages that were inflicted upon the victim.
Not all dram shop laws are created equal, so it is important to enlist the help of a skilled attorney who is experienced in Connecticut case law. We can help you and your relatives improve your odds of filing a successful personal injury or wrongful death case that includes the at-fault establishment or restaurant server. Those who serve alcohol to a visibly drunk patron endanger all of us, especially when that driver is turned loose on our roads.
Victims who have suffered serious injuries in a drunk driving accident may be entitled to a variety of civil damages. These can include compensation for pain and suffering, current and future medical costs, lost wages, funeral expenses and a variety of other costs. You and your family deserve compensation for the negative experiences you have had to endure; let us help you hold the at-fault parties accountable.