Holding Bars and Restaurants Accountable in DUI Accidents
When a drunk driver causes a car accident that injures someone, there may be a third party that shares responsibility for the accident. That third party is the bar or restaurant that served alcohol to the drunk driver after he or she was already intoxicated.
At the Law Office of Robert A. Miller, in Eugene, Oregon, our lawyers will seek to hold both drunk drivers and the liquor establishments who served them accountable for the injuries you suffered in a drunk driving-related accident. We offer a free initial consultation to explain your rights and answer your questions.
Dram Shop Liability and Oregon law
The area of law that holds liquor establishments responsible for injuries caused by intoxicated patrons is called dram shop liability. A dram shop is a legal term for a bar, tavern, restaurant or other establishment that serves liquor.
In Oregon, any bar, restaurant or tavern that serves alcohol to a person who is already visibly intoxicated in liable under our dram shop liability law.
Many bars encourage patrons to over-consume alcohol through events such as happy hours and drink specials. Restaurants, which may make as much profit on drinks as food, also go out of their way to promote consumption of alcohol during meals. However, when a patron is already intoxicated, it is irresponsible for a business to pad its profits by continuing to sell that person drinks.
To be entitled to make a claim under this law you must give the proper written notice to the responsible bar or tavern within 180 days of you injury. Otherwise your rights will be forfeited. That's just one of the reasons for contacting our office soon after the accident.
We Look Forward to the Opportunity to Meet You
To discuss your dram shop liability car accident case with one of our attorneys, call 541-359-4331 (866-272-0803 toll free) or contact us online. Our law office is located in Eugene, Oregon.
