Drunk driving accidents cause serious injuries, but sometimes the responsibility extends beyond the driver. In Washington, commercial liquor liability can affect personal injury cases when a bar, restaurant, or liquor store serves alcohol to someone who then causes a crash. Understanding this liability helps you see who else might be held accountable.
What is commercial liquor liability?
Commercial liquor liability means businesses that sell or serve alcohol can be responsible if they serve a visibly intoxicated person or a minor who later causes harm. Washington law requires these businesses to serve alcohol responsibly to prevent accidents. If they don’t, they might share liability for injuries.
How does this impact injury claims?
If a drunk driver caused your injury but got alcohol from a business that served them irresponsibly, that business could be partly liable. This means your injury claim could involve not just the driver but also the liquor-serving establishment. This might increase your chances of compensation.
When does liability apply?
Washington’s Dram Shop Law makes commercial sellers liable if they serve alcohol to a clearly intoxicated person or a minor who causes injury. To hold the business liable, you must show they served the person despite knowing they were intoxicated or underage.
Understanding your options
If you’re injured in a drunk driving crash, explore whether commercial liquor liability applies. Holding all responsible parties accountable can help you recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and pain.
Washington law supports protecting people from harm caused by irresponsible alcohol service.