Dram Shop
DRAM SHOP AND SOCIAL HOST LIABILITY
In Georgia, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, casinos, liquor stores and other commercial enterprises, as well as individuals can be held liable for automobile accidents when they have negligently or unlawfully sold or served alcohol. Incidents involving commercial establishments who sell alcohol for a profit are generally called “Dram Shop Liability” cases. Individuals who provide alcohol gratuitously may also be held liable for the actions of their guests as well, and the phrase “Social Host Liability” applies where the defendant’s service of alcohol was gratuitous or not-for-profit.
Georgia law, by statute, may place liability on both Dram Shop and Social Host defendants under the following circumstances:
- There was an unlawful sale or service of alcohol to an underage driver (someone under the lawful drinking age of 21), knowing that such person will soon be driving a motor vehicle; and/or
- There was a sale or service of alcohol to someone (either younger or older than 21) who was in a “state of noticeable intoxication,” knowing that such person will soon be driving a motor vehicle.
Georgia Dram Shop Liability Lawyer
The law in Georgia involving DUI accidents is very technical and based upon complicated issues of law and fact. The lawyers at Miller & Hightower are experienced with the intricacies of all facets of DUI law. When you or your loved one has been the victim of someone else’s willful, and deliberate choice to drink and drive and put others at risk, you will have to face difficult decisions. You do not have to make these decisions alone; the experienced DUI attorneys at Miller & Hightower can help you protect you and your family. If you or a loved one has faced injury or been killed at the hands of a drunk driver call Miller & Hightower for a free consultation.