What Is Commercial Host Liability?
Establishments that serve alcohol for a profit, such as restaurants, nightclubs, and bars, may be liable for damages caused by their drunken customers. Commercial hosts who serve obviously drunk customers may be considered to have contributed to accidents or crimes such as drunk-driving accidents, simple assaults, and sexual assaults. Commercial servers of alcohol can also be liable for any damage caused by a minor who was served alcohol illegally.
How Can Businesses Protect Themselves from Commercial Host Liability?While alcohol and liquor liability laws vary by state, there are a few steps that business owners can take to reduce their potential liability. These include:
- Purchasing liability insurance
- Hiring trained or certified bartenders
- Refusing entrance or service to customers who are visibly drunk
- Tightly regulating the amount of liquor served in drinks
- Establishing clear policies and procedures to prevent over-serving
Can a Lawyer Help Protect My Business?If you want to protect your business from commercial host liability lawsuits a liquor liability attorney may be able help you choose an insurance policy and operating procedure that best protects your business. If a lawsuit concerning commercial host liability has been brought against you a civil defense attorney can advise you of your rights and legal defenses. |
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