At Patterson Law Group, we believe in justice for those harmed by the negligent actions of others. Among the most tragic and preventable accidents are those involving alcohol-related incidents.
When bars, restaurants, or other establishments overserve patrons who then cause harm, these businesses can be held accountable under Texas’ dram shop liability laws. If you or a loved one has suffered due to a drunk driving accident, our team of experienced Fort Worth injury lawyers is here to guide you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Dram Shop Liability in Texas
Texas law recognizes the significant role alcohol-serving establishments play in preventing drunk driving. Under the Texas Dram Shop Act, businesses that serve alcohol can be held legally responsible if they serve someone who is clearly intoxicated and that person causes harm to others.
The law applies to various establishments, including bars, restaurants, nightclubs, and liquor stores. As a dram shop liability attorney in Fort Worth, we work to hold these establishments accountable when their actions contribute to preventable tragedies.
Key Provisions of the Texas Dram Shop Act
The Texas Dram Shop Act is outlined in Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code Section 2.02. To hold a business liable under this law, the injured party must prove the establishment sold or served alcohol to an intoxicated person who presented a clear danger to themselves or others and the intoxication directly caused the injuries or damages suffered.
This law is essential in promoting responsible alcohol service and reducing drunk driving accidents. According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), over 23% of all traffic fatalities in Texas in 2022 were alcohol-related.
These sobering statistics highlight the importance of holding establishments accountable for overserving alcohol.
How Dram Shop Liability Cases Help Victims
When alcohol-related accidents occur, the victims often face significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens. Medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation costs can quickly become overwhelming. As your accident attorney in Fort Worth, we are committed to ensuring you are not left to bear these burdens alone.
By pursuing a dram shop liability claim, victims can seek compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, property damage, and funeral expenses in wrongful death cases. Our team understands the challenges victims face and fights tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for each client.
Common Scenarios in Dram Shop Liability Cases
Dram shop liability cases can arise from various situations where alcohol overservice plays a role in causing harm. Some of the most common scenarios we handle include drunk driving accidents, physical altercations, and pedestrian injuries.
One of the most devastating consequences of overserving alcohol is drunk driving. In 2022 alone, Texas reported over 25,000 alcohol-related crashes, many of which resulted in serious injuries or fatalities. Our auto accident lawyer in Fort Worth works to hold both the drunk driver and the establishment accountable for their actions.
Alcohol often impairs judgment and self-control, leading to fights and physical altercations. If a bar or restaurant overserved an intoxicated person who then injured someone in a fight, the establishment could be held liable.
Overserved patrons may also stumble into traffic or harm pedestrians. These cases can be particularly complex, but we have the experience to navigate these challenging claims.
How We Prove Dram Shop Liability
Dram shop liability cases require thorough investigation and skilled legal representation. As the best car wreck attorney in Fort Worth, we leave no stone unturned in building a strong case for our clients.
We obtain receipts, surveillance footage, and eyewitness accounts to establish that the establishment overserved alcohol to the patron. Toxicologists and other experts can provide critical insights into how the patron’s level of intoxication contributed to the accident.
We connect the dots between the establishment’s negligent actions and the harm caused, ensuring a clear and compelling argument for liability.
Dram Shop Liability in Wrongful Death Cases
When a drunk driving accident results in the tragic loss of life, the impact on families is immeasurable. Texas law allows surviving family members to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the responsible parties, including alcohol-serving establishments.
Our dram shop liability attorney in Fort Worth understands the profound grief families experience in these cases. We work compassionately yet aggressively to pursue justice on behalf of your loved one, ensuring those responsible are held accountable for their role in the tragedy.
Why Choose Patterson Law Group
Navigating the complexities of a dram shop liability claim can be daunting, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Patterson Law Group, we bring extensive experience, a proven track record, and a commitment to personalized client service.
With years of experience handling dram shop liability cases, we know how to build strong claims and achieve favorable results. We genuinely care about our clients’ well-being and fight tirelessly to secure the compensation they deserve.
We have the resources to investigate and litigate even the most complex cases. Our reputation as the best car wreck attorney in Fort Worth speaks for itself.
Protecting Victims, Promoting Accountability
Dram shop liability laws are crucial in reducing drunk driving and protecting public safety. By holding negligent establishments accountable, we secure justice for victims and promote responsible alcohol service throughout our community.
As a Fort Worth dram shop liability lawyer, we are proud to represent victims and their families, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights are protected.
Contact Us Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in an alcohol-related accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Time is critical in these cases, as evidence can quickly disappear. Our team at Patterson Law Group is ready to provide the skilled representation you need to hold negligent parties accountable.
Call us today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced accident attorney in Fort Worth. Together, we’ll work to secure the justice and compensation you deserve.
