Bar Owners And Drunk Driving Accident Responsibilities

Drunk driving accidents can lead to injuries, emotional trauma, and significant financial losses. While the impaired driver is typically the primary party held responsible, there are situations where a bar, nightclub, or other alcohol-serving establishment may share liability.

In Florida, especially in entertainment-heavy areas like Orlando, bar owners can be held accountable under certain legal principles when their actions (or lack thereof) contribute to a crash. Have a conversation with an Orlando personal injury attorney to learn more.

Over-Served Patrons and Dangerous Parking Lots

Florida has what’s known as a dram shop law, which governs when a business can be held liable for injuries caused by an intoxicated person. While a lot of states have these types of laws, Florida’s law is more limited than others.

Generally, bar owners are not automatically liable for serving alcohol to an adult who later causes an accident. But there are two important exceptions. Specifically, if a bar owner knowingly serves alcohol to someone under 21 or knowingly serves alcohol to someone who is addicted to alcohol. These cases are complex and often require witness statements, surveillance footage, or employee testimony to prove that the establishment knew or should have known about the person’s age or condition.

In addition to concerns about over-serving alcohol, bar owners can also be held liable for accidents occurring on their property, including in parking lots and garages. Premises liability laws in Florida require property owners to keep their premises safe for customers. This includes:

• Providing adequate lighting in parking areas
• Controlling traffic flow safely with signage or barriers
• Preventing patrons from drinking in parked cars or loitering unsafely
• Ensuring security presence when necessary to manage intoxicated individuals

If a person is struck by a vehicle in a poorly lit or negligently maintained parking area, or if a visibly intoxicated person is allowed to get behind the wheel while still on the premises, a claim may be made against the bar or property owner.

Hold All Responsible Parties Accountable

After someone is  injured in a drunk driving accident, legal professionals are able to help hurt parties and their families explore every potential source of compensation. In some situations this includes filing a claim against a bar or nightclub that may have contributed to the situation. These cases often require in-depth investigations, including collecting surveillance footage, eyewitness accounts, and staff training records to determine if the establishment was negligent.

Holding parties accountable not only supports your financial recovery but also sends a message that businesses must take their responsibilities seriously when serving alcohol. If you’ve been affected, speak with an Orlando personal injury attorney who understands the nuances of Florida’s laws. A seasoned lawyer can fight to secure the compensation you deserve.

Do you want to discuss establishment accountability with a lawyer? While the intoxicated driver holds much of the blame, bars and nightclubs that serve alcohol irresponsibly or fail to manage their property safely can also be liable. Connect with the attorneys at Israoui Law for the personal attention you deserve. Call 407-381-4529 today.  Always speak to an experienced Orlando accident lawyer before speaking to any insurance company.