Hosting a party is the perfect way to enjoy time with family and friends without blowing your paycheck at the pubs in downtown Austin. But what happens if a guest leaves your home and causes an accident? Would you be liable for damages?
According to Chapter 2 of the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code, there are certain situations in which the victim of a drunk-driving accident can bring a personal injury claim against the bar or person who sold or provided alcohol to the intoxicated driver. Here are three such scenarios:
- The intoxicated driver was younger than 18;
- The person who bought or received the alcohol was obviously drunk and posed a clear danger to others or him- or herself;
- Or the intoxication of the person was a proximate cause of the damages.
Contact an Austin Injury Lawyer If You Were Injured by a Drunk Driver in Texas
If you were injured due to a drunk driver, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income, medical bills and other damages related to the incident. However, making a successful claim is not always a straightforward process.
A small oversight, such as unknowingly admitting fault to an insurance adjuster, could prevent you from recovering the compensation you deserve. This is where an Austin injury lawyer may be able to help.
An accident attorney from the Robson Law Firm will handle the legal aspects of your case so you can focus on recovery. Call 512-345-8200 to schedule a free initial consultation.
Serving Alcohol to a Minor under the Age of 18
If damages are proximately caused by a minor under the age of 18, an adult who is 21 or older will be liable for damages if:
- The adult is not the minor’s spouse, parent or guardian;
- A court has not committed custody of the minor to the adult;
- The adult provided or served alcohol to the minor, which contributed to the minor’s intoxication;
- Or the adult allowed the minor to receive alcohol, which contributed to the minor’s intoxication on the property leased or owned by the adult.
How to Avoid a Personal Injury Claim Related to Social Host Liability
If you host a party, you should not allow anyone who is younger than 21 to consume alcohol. You should also take these steps to help your guests avoid drunk driving accidents:
- Let guests stay overnight;
- Offer plenty of food and water;
- And never serve alcohol to habitual DWI offenders.
You should also have a list of taxi companies available for guests. Here are a few cab companies in Austin:
- Austin Express Cab Service: 512-666-4141
- Austin Cab Company: 512-478-2222
- Arbor Taxi Service: 512-318-2744
- Yellow Cab: 512-452-9999
If you were injured in a drunk driving crash, contact the Robson Law Firm. A drunk driving attorney in Texas can help you pursue the maximum compensation for medical expenses, time off work and noneconomic damages.
Our firm has been representing the injured for more than 20 years. Call 512-345-8200 to schedule a free initial consultation.