It’s Saturday night at the local pub. A man is slouched over, red-faced, and leaning on the bar. He raises an unsteady hand and says, “One more, please,” as he fumbles for his keys. The bartender doesn’t hesitate and grabs a bottle. Unfortunately, you know how this story can end—someone in the wrong place at the wrong time faced with lifelong injuries or even death.
It’s natural to first blame the drunk driver for harm caused behind the wheel. But, let’s rewind the clock a bit. Where did the drunk driver get the alcohol? Were they already clearly intoxicated when the alcohol was provided? In the state of Indiana it is illegal to give alcohol to someone who is already drunk. Period.
Indiana has laws designed to prevent this from happening. Called over-serving laws (or Dram Shop laws), these rules impose responsibility for the dangerous sale of alcohol to intoxicated patrons. Bars, restaurants, and liquor stores must get a license from the State of Indiana to sell booze. And just like when a driver ignores the rules of the road, when an establishment ignores the rules of alcohol sales, they bear some responsibility for tragedies that may follow.
Indiana’s Dram Shop laws are clear, but fighting for a fair recovery can be tricky. We can work with you to tackle the complicated questions of medicine and science that are always present in a case like yours. At BB&C, we have an attorney with over 30 years of experience, successfully handling dram shop cases from start to finish. He has worked with forensic toxicologists and other experts who know the details of blood alcohol levels, potency rates, and the effects of intoxication.
Dram shop attorneys know what questions to ask and how to get answers. If your life has been impacted by someone drinking and driving, please reach out to us. We’re here to help. Contact Kyle Cray at 765-742-9066.
Disclaimer: The content of this blog is intended to be general and informational in nature. It is advertising material and is not intended to be, nor is it, legal advice to or for any particular person, case, or circumstance. Each situation is different, and you should consult an attorney if you have any questions about your situation.
