Can I Sue a Bar or Nightclub if a Drunk Driver Hit Me?

 Posted on August 26, 2024 in Car Accidents

It is illegal to drive while intoxicated in Texas. Sadly, many people drive drunk anyway, often causing otherwise avoidable collisions that result in injuries and fatalities. Drunk driving is a negligent behavior, which can qualify you to obtain compensation through a car accident claim. However, the driver is not the only potentially liable party.

The people or establishments that served or sold alcohol to the driver may also be held accountable for your injuries and related losses. A knowledgeable attorney from The Bettersworth Law Firm will investigate the circumstances surrounding your crash and identify all at-fault parties.

What Is the Dram Shop Law in Texas?

Patrons of restaurants, bars, nightclubs, liquor stores, and other licensed alcohol providers can buy alcoholic beverages. Whether the patron drinks the beverages on the premises or elsewhere, the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code may allow you to hold these providers accountable for injuries later caused by the drinker.

Businesses may be liable if they serve alcohol to an adult who is obviously intoxicated. Serving minors, whether intoxicated or not, is also grounds for potential liability. Liability is different for social hosts. A social host who serves alcohol to their guests is only liable if the person causing an accident is a minor and not their own child.

It can be challenging to hold these parties liable for your damages. The Texas Safe Harbor Act provides some protection for businesses that qualify. When you work with The Bettersworth Law Firm, we will trace the drunk driver’s steps in the hours prior to causing your collision to gather supporting evidence for your claim. If dram shop liability applies to your personal injury case, we will work diligently to see these parties pay.

Why Is Drunk Driving Dangerous?

Alcohol consumption can lead to several impairments that affect driving abilities, such as:

• Blurred vision

• Uncoordinated motor skills

• Poor judgment

• Difficulty concentrating

• Drowsiness

• Feelings of invincibility

• Road rage

Drunk drivers often cannot react quickly enough to emerging traffic threats to avoid collisions. In addition, their driving behaviors can lead to other vehicles crashing while attempting to avoid the drunk driver. Examples of these behaviors include:

• Drifting or weaving into other lanes, shoulders, or oncoming traffic

• Tailgating

• Speeding

• Inconsistent speeds, slowing down or speeding up erratically

• Sudden steering or braking maneuvers

• Disregarding traffic signals and signs

• Failing to yield the right of way

All of these actions can lead to auto accidents.

Contact Us 24/7 for Your Free Consultation With Our Dedicated New Braunfels, TX Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

If a drunk driver injured you, everyone who contributed to the intoxication should be held accountable for their negligence. At The Bettersworth Law Firm, we will work hard to see that happen and fight to help you obtain the highest possible amount of compensation. Call us at 830-606-0404 now to speak with our experienced San Marcos, TX car collision attorney.