Certain holidays like Halloween are a popular time for parties and social gatherings at home. Many of these gatherings also involve alcohol. Unfortunately, some decide to get behind the wheel after drinking and wind up injuring themselves or others. In situations like this, liquor liability laws may apply.
New York has implemented dram shop laws that hold bars, restaurants, or other establishments responsible if they serve alcohol to someone who is visibly intoxicated and that person ends up injuring themselves, such as in a drunk driving accident. The injured person could pursue compensation from the establishment that served alcohol to the intoxicated driver.
But, what happens if this situation occurs at a private residence?
Serving Alcohol to Minors
Some states have laws that could hold social hosts liable if an intoxicated guest leaves a private party and causes a drunk driving accident. In these states, this social host could be pursued for lost income, medical bills, and pain and suffering damages.
New York, on the other hand, has very limited social host liability laws. In this state, injured individuals can only pursue a social host if alcohol was knowingly served to a minor (under 21 years old) and that minor’s intoxication caused injuries to another.
With this in mind, party hosts should remember that giving alcohol to someone who they know is under 21 is not just illegal but could land them a social host liability lawsuit.
Drunk driving accidents can be quite complex. If you or a loved one was injured due to an intoxicated driver, reach out to Foley Griffin for help. Our personal injury attorneys will look at the evidence of your case to determine liable parties and fight for your rights to compensation.
Contact our firm at (888) 966-8480 to schedule your free consultation.