Call Us atAt Libbey Law Offices, LLC, we know that every personal injury lawsuit is unique. Many personal injury cases involve drunk driving or other bad behavior by someone who drank too much. If you need an experienced, enthusiastic Bothell dram shop lawyer, contact us today to schedule your consultation with one of our dedicated car accident attorneys. We do not charge for our services until our clients get the compensation they deserve, and we look forward to helping you pursue adequate funding for your injuries and losses.
If you experienced an injury because someone else was intoxicated, you may be able to sue the restaurant, event host, or bar that served them alcohol. This is the basis of dram shop law and the reason Bothell dram shop attorneys exist.
What is Covered by Dram Shop Law?
In Washington state, organizations and individuals who provide alcohol to others, whether it is sold at a bar or given at a party, have certain responsibilities. Bars and bartenders are not allowed to sell more alcohol to someone who is obviously dangerously intoxicated—and these responsible parties can face very stiff penalties, according to RCW 66.44.200.
Courts recognize that when individuals are under the influence of alcohol, they are very likely to make poor decisions. This is especially true of minors. That’s why a restaurateur or bartender should go to great lengths to be sure their patrons are of legal age and not dangerously intoxicated. When they fail to do so, victims may have legal recourse under dram shop laws, and a Bothell dram shop attorney can help hold negligent parties accountable.
Organizations Subject to Dram Shop Law
Some examples of organizations subject to dram shop law include:
- Bars/pubs
- Nightclubs
- Restaurants
- Casinos that serve alcohol
- And one-time events, like fundraisers
These businesses must properly train their staff to recognize when someone has had too much to drink. In some cases, the bartender or staffer bears responsibility, but pursuing legal action against the organization often leads to better results since it carries insurance, licenses, and bonds. If negligent alcohol service caused harm to you or a loved one, a dram shop lawyer in Bothell could help you take legal action and hold the responsible parties accountable.
Possible Damages in a Dram Shop Case
A dram shop attorney in Bothell could help those injured in alcohol-related accidents and their families recover compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost enjoyment of life, and property damage. Compensation should cover the full impact of the injuries, including the challenges of daily activities. In the worst-case scenario, a family may seek compensation for the loss of a loved one, along with burial expenses, medical care, and other related costs.
Insurance companies and attorneys representing a dram shop often try to avoid court. They typically reach out quickly with a low settlement offer, hoping that injuries or grief will pressure individuals into accepting the first check. Many do not realize that accepting this payment waives their right to pursue additional compensation later.
Call a Bothell Dram Shop Accident Lawyer Before Accepting Any Settlement
At Libbey Law Offices, LLC, we are eager to fight on your behalf and get you the compensation you deserve in a dram shop lawsuit. We will connect you with an experienced, savvy Bothell dram shop lawyer for your first consultation.
Contact us today to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Our dedicated team understands the complexities of dram shop laws and will work tirelessly to hold negligent parties accountable.
