Houston Dram Shop Attorney
Houston is a vibrant metropolis known for its thriving economy, cultural diversity, and, of course, its legendary hospitality. But what happens when that hospitality spills over into overserving alcohol, leading to a drunk driving accident and causing you or a loved one serious harm? Texas Dram Shop laws exist to hold establishments accountable for their role in such accidents.
At The West Law Office, our Houston dram shop attorney understands the devastating impact drunk driving accidents can have. We are dedicated to protecting your rights and seeking the compensation you deserve under the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code (TABC).
What Are the Texas Dram Shop Laws?
Dram Shop laws hold establishments that serve or sell alcohol liable for injuries or deaths caused by intoxicated patrons. Unlike some states, Texas Dram Shop laws don’t directly use the term “dram shop.” However, Chapter 2 of the TABC outlines the responsibility of bars, restaurants, and other establishments that serve alcohol.
The key points of the law are:
- Duty to serve responsibly: Establishments have a legal duty to serve alcohol responsibly. This includes refusing service to minors (under 21) and visibly intoxicated patrons.
- Intoxication signs: Texas law doesn’t provide a specific definition of “visibly intoxicated.” However, common signs include slurred speech, unsteady gait, inability to focus, or excessive consumption within a short period. Staff training plays a crucial role in identifying these signs.
- Third-party liability: Dram Shop laws allow injured victims or their families to file a lawsuit against the establishment that overserved the intoxicated driver, in addition to suing the driver themselves. This ensures all parties responsible for your injuries are held accountable.
Common Dram Shop Injury Cases We Handle
Some of the common dram shop injury cases in Houston we handle include:
- Drunk driving accidents: When bars serve alcohol to a visibly intoxicated patron, and that patron gets behind the wheel and causes a crash, the bar can be held responsible along with the drunk driver. We represent victims of drunk driving crashes, including pedestrians, occupants of other vehicles, and more.
- Alcohol-fueled assaults: Bars and clubs are required to have proper security and alcohol monitoring policies to prevent over-serving patrons who could pose a danger. When inadequate policies lead to a patron becoming belligerent and assaulting someone, the business can be sued.
- Over-service of minors: It is illegal in Texas for any licensed alcohol retailer to serve minors under 21. If a minor is overserved by staff, any subsequent drunk driving accident, injury, or other incident caused by that minor’s intoxication can lead to dram shop liability.
Call for a Free Consultation Today with a Houston Dram Shop Attorney
Dram shop cases require extensive investigation and must be filed within strict time limits under Texas law. Don’t wait to take legal action after being injured by an over-served patron at a bar, club, or restaurant. Our dedicated team is available 24/7 to review your case for free. We work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Call anytime to speak directly with a Houston dram shop attorney. Your consultation is always free and confidential.
