Horrible motor vehicle accidents because of drunk driving happen daily across the United States. Lives change forever from extensive injuries, and some are ended. Is a restaurant or drinking establishment liable for wrongful death from a car crash?
Tragically, deaths from automobile accidents deprive families of the deceased from their love and support for the rest of their lives. This can deplete resources for the long-term and affect future financial stability.
Pennsylvania’s Answer
Because of the state of Pennsylvania’s Dram Shop Act, many establishments that serve alcohol have been found responsible for drunk driving deaths. If the perpetrator of the accident was served alcohol at an establishment while visibly intoxicated, and that directly led to the crash, the eatery or bar can be held liable for wrongful death.
Host Responsibility
In addition, our state has a Social Host Law that holds adult party hosts responsible when underage guests become intoxicated, get behind the wheel and cause a motor vehicle accident. If the host knew that the underage guest was drunk, civil liability could apply.
A Need For Restitution
Legally, there are options to pursue civil lawsuits that can provide restitution for accident victims and their families. Victims of severe accidents that were caused by drunk driving rightfully deserve compensation for:
- Injuries suffered
- Lost wages
- Medical treatment and rehabilitation
- Ongoing disability
Nothing can bring back the life of someone wrongly killed by the actions of an intoxicated driver, but thanks to Pennsylvania’s liability laws, those responsible will have to pay for their negligence.
