Any business has a legal responsibility to ensure that guests partaking of its services are reasonably protected. For instance, this is why restaurants have health codes and swimming pools have lifeguards. If a business serves alcohol, they have a legal obligation to ensure their clients aren’t overindulging. There may be legal consequences if a bar overserves alcohol to customers and creates a dangerous situation that results in a personal injury.

What Are the Rules About Providing Alcohol as a Bar or Tavern Owner?

So-called “dram shop laws” exist in all states. Under these guidelines, bars, restaurants, taverns, and pubs can be held liable if they overserve an individual who then causes personal injury to another person, such as drunk driving. Even a person hosting a private party serving alcohol can be found liable. 

Ohio only allows for such liability in two scenarios. In one, legal action can be taken if the injured person was hurt on the vendor's property and their ailments were due to the vendor's negligence. In the second situation, the person’s injuries may occur off the vendor’s property. In this case, however, the vendor must have knowingly provided alcohol to a clearly intoxicated person or a person under the age of 21.

What Consequences Can a Business Face if It Breaks These Rules?

A personal injury lawsuit filed under Ohio's dram shop laws is a civil lawsuit, meaning they won't face jail time but could have to pay hefty financial penalties. The injured person could sue for damages like medical bills, lost wages due to an inability to work, property damage, and pain and suffering.

If you are injured due to an intoxicated person’s behavior, contact a personal injury lawyer. Ibold & O'Brien in Chardon, OH, provides top-quality legal representation in an array of fields, including personal injury claims from on- or off-premises injuries in an establishment that serves alcohol. This local law firm offers a personal touch, while having the manpower and expertise to take on larger competitors. They will provide you with reliable and honest counsel. Review their practice areas, from medical malpractice to bankruptcy, online, or call (440) 285-3511 to schedule an appointment.