If you or a loved one has been the subject of injury arising from the negligence of another, you must consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer to secure the compensation merited for such harm. Enter Mark J. Siegel, a Dallas personal injury lawyer who has been in the business of civil litigation in the Dallas, Texas region since 1978. With a deep-seated focus on personal injury, product liability, medical malpractice, and business litigation, Mr. Siegel and his team of accomplished associates are dedicated to aiding the injured in procuring the justice that they are entitled to.
In the state of Texas, enjoying a night out with friends or family at a bar or restaurant is a common occurrence. However, with the consumption of alcohol comes responsibility. Unfortunately, not everyone adheres to this responsibility, leading to alcohol-related accidents and injuries. In such cases, understanding Texas Dram Shop Laws becomes crucial.
What are Texas Dram Shop Laws?
Dram Shop Laws hold establishments liable for injuries or damages caused by their patrons who were served alcohol irresponsibly. In Texas, these laws apply to bars, restaurants, clubs, and any other establishments that serve alcohol. If a person becomes intoxicated at one of these establishments and subsequently causes an accident or injury due to their intoxication, the establishment may be held partially liable under Dram Shop Laws.
Proving Liability
To establish liability under Texas Dram Shop Laws, certain criteria must be met:
Alcohol Service: It must be proven that the establishment served alcohol to the individual who caused the accident or injury.
Visible Intoxication: There must be evidence that the individual was visibly intoxicated at the time they were served alcohol.
Foreseeability: The establishment should have reasonably foreseen that serving alcohol to the individual could result in harm to others.
Exceptions and Defenses
While Dram Shop Laws hold establishments accountable, there are exceptions and defenses that may apply. These include:
Contributory Negligence: If the injured party shares some responsibility for the accident due to their own actions, the establishment’s liability may be reduced.
Criminal Act: If the injury resulted from the intentional criminal act of the intoxicated person rather than mere negligence, the establishment may not be held liable.
Statute of Limitations: There’s a limited time frame within which a lawsuit must be filed to pursue damages under Dram Shop Laws.
Seeking Legal Assistance
Navigating Texas Dram Shop Laws can be complex, especially when dealing with the aftermath of an alcohol-related accident or injury. This is where the expertise of a skilled personal injury lawyer like Mark J. Siegel becomes invaluable. With decades of experience in civil litigation, Mr. Siegel and his team are well-versed in Texas laws pertaining to alcohol-related accidents. They can assess the details of your case, determine liability, and fight to secure the compensation you deserve.
Conclusion
Alcohol-related accidents can have devastating consequences, but victims have rights under Texas Dram Shop Laws. If you or a loved one has been injured due to the negligence of an establishment that served alcohol irresponsibly, don’t hesitate to seek legal counsel. Contact Mark J. Siegel & Associates today for a consultation.
Call Mark J. Siegel & Associates at (214) 520-0000 to discuss your case with a dedicated personal injury lawyer.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. For personalized legal guidance regarding your specific situation, please consult with a qualified attorney.