Sacramento Dram Shop Liability Lawyer
Can a third party be liable for damages when an intoxicated individual harms another in California? These liability rules are called “Dram Shop” and “social host liability” laws. California significantly limits third-party liability for alcohol-related accidents. As such, California Civil Code section 1714 absolves bars, restaurants, party hosts, and others of possible liability for selling or supplying alcohol to customers and guests, with a few exceptions.
One of the most notable exceptions regards selling or supplying alcohol to minors. If a Sacramento dram shop or social host sells or provides alcohol to a visibly impaired minor, they may be liable for DUI-related damages. For an assessment of your unique dram shop liability claim, speak with the highly experienced Sacramento dram shop liability attorneys at Eric Ratinoff Law Corp.
What Is a Dram Shop Law in Sacramento?
In Sacramento, dram shop laws refer to the legal regulations that govern the liability of businesses and individuals who sell or serve alcohol to customers who subsequently cause injuries or damages to others.
Under California Civil Code section 1714, supplying alcohol isn’t the “proximate cause of injuries resulting from intoxication,” but rather the consumption of alcohol. However, there may be exceptions to this rule, including the following:
- Social host liability regarding serving minors: When a parent, guardian, or other adult serves alcohol to a minor at their residence, a social host may be liable for the actions of an intoxicated minor and subsequent damages.
- Business liability regarding serving minors: California Business & Professions Code section 25602.1 applies to businesses licensed to sell, provide, or serve alcohol. If an employee serves alcohol to an obviously intoxicated minor, they may be held liable for their actions, including DUI-related damages.
If you sustained injuries in an accident caused by a minor that was overserved alcohol at a business or residence, speak with a skilled Sacramento dram shop liability lawyer for legal guidance. If you cannot sue a dram shop, you may be eligible to seek damages from the individual responsible for the injuries they caused.
Why Do You Need a Lawyer for a Dram Shop Liability Claim?
Dram shop liability claims are often complex. At Eric Ratinoff Law Corp., we are well-versed in California dram shop laws that may affect your case. Working with our skilled legal team may increase your chances of obtaining a favorable outcome.
We can handle the following aspects of your case to fight for the compensation you deserve:
- Conduct an investigation into your accident
- Obtain evidence to satisfy the burden of proof
- Interview eyewitnesses
- Establish liability for one or more parties
We have achieved state-wide and national recognition for success and put our resources and experience to work through every step of the legal process.
Recoverable Compensation for Sacramento Dram Shop Injuries
In a successful dram shop liability claim, you may recover certain economic and non-economic damages depending on the circumstances of your accident and the extent of your injuries. A Sacramento dram shop liability lawyer can help you evaluate the value of your claim by evaluating evidence such as medical bills, pay stubs, property repair receipts, and more.
You may be eligible to seek damages for the following losses in a successful dram shop liability claim:
- Present and future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Disability, scarring, or impairment
- Cost of property repairs or replacements
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
A Sacramento dram shop liability lawyer can help assess your unique situation, determine eligibility to recover damages, and calculate a fair settlement. At Eric Ratinoff Law Corp., we handle all aspects of your claim and fight for you at every step so you can focus on healing.
Contact the Highly Qualified Sacramento Dram Shop Liability Attorneys at Eric Ratinoff Law Corp.
At Eric Ratinoff Law Corp., we seek justice for those injured by a negligent business or individual that served alcohol to a minor. We are experienced in California dram shop liability laws and know how to seek maximum compensation for injured victims. With over 30 years of experience, we want to guide you through the legal process and fiercely fight for the justice you deserve.
To understand your best legal options for seeking damages in your unique dram shop liability claim, call (916) 970-9100 or fill out our contact form for a free consultation today.
