The term “dram shop” refers to establishments that are licensed to serve alcohol. These businesses have a responsibility to serve alcohol in a manner that does not interfere with the safety of the community.
If you have been injured on the premises of a dram shop or by the actions of an intoxicated person because they were overserved, you may have multiple avenues to pursue compensation. Reach out to a Fresno dram shop lawyer from Valero Law Group, who can help develop your case.
California Dram Shop Liability Laws
California dram shop liability laws exist to encourage the responsible serving and selling of alcohol without hindering a business. An establishment such as a bar, restaurant, or liquor store that is licensed to serve or sell alcohol is not responsible for the actions of intoxicated persons unless it can be proven that the alcohol served directly led to an injury. This can be challenging to prove, but in certain situations, the law explicitly asserts when an establishment is liable. This includes:
- When a person under the age of 18, who is already visibly intoxicated, is served any alcohol and then causes injury
- When any person who is visibly intoxicated is served more alcohol and persists in a behavior that is reckless or unsafe because of their alcohol use
- When a person is over-served and it leads to injuries from fights, slips and falls, or drunk driving accidents
Establishing responsibility and liability after an accident or injury caused by an intoxicated person can be difficult. Call a Fresno injury attorney who is well-versed in dram shop liability laws and can gather evidence to help you prove fault.
How Do Dram Shop Lawsuits Work?
An accident that resulted in injury to a minor who was overserved or an accident caused by a person who reasonably should not have been offered further alcohol can be developed into a personal injury suit. This lawsuit allows you to pursue damages for medical bills, pain and suffering, and potentially more as a result of your injuries. The statute of limitations for pursuing a claim is two years after the incident, or from the time of death in fatal situations. This means you only have two years to start legal action.
A dram shop lawyer in Fresno can help you by negotiating with insurance companies and litigating in court, if needed, to pursue all liable parties for the compensation you need to make a full recovery and rebuild after an injury.
Get in Touch with a Fresno Dram Shop Attorney Today
Intoxicated persons can cause serious injury to other people and their communities. Businesses licensed to serve alcohol have an obligation to keep communities safe by not over-serving or providing alcohol to minors. If an establishment has breached this responsibility, it may be liable to provide compensation for your injuries.
When you need legal assistance, you need the team at the Valero Law Group on your side. We come to you or provide transportation to ensure that you get the help you need without hindering your recovery. Get in touch with a Fresno dram shop lawyer today who can help you get the compensation you deserve.
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