In Oklahoma, dram shop laws pertain to selling alcoholic beverages to the public. Laws that regulate the distribution of alcohol make it unlawful for bars to sell already intoxicated patrons any more alcohol. Additionally, it is illegal to furnish minors (persons under 21) with alcohol. Failure to abide by these laws may result in civil litigation. If a drunk driver has harmed you or someone you love due to the actions of a negligent bartender, you may have grounds for a dram shop liability claim. To discuss the details of your case, contact the Oklahoma City dram shop liability lawyers of the Abel Law Firm. Call (405) 239-7046 today to schedule a free initial consultation, during which you can discuss your legal options.
Dram Shop Laws
In Oklahoma, dram shop laws restrict the sale of alcohol to the public. Under dram shop law:
- It is unlawful to distribute alcohol to persons who appear intoxicated.
- The sale or distribution of alcohol to persons under the age of 21 is strictly prohibited.
Failure to comply with dram shop laws may be grounds for a lawsuit if it leads to a drunk driving accident or other injuries to innocent parties.
Serving Alcohol to Minors
Serving alcohol to a minor, or anyone under 21, is illegal in all 50 states. To encourage establishments to abide by this law, dram shop laws allow minors to sue the establishment that served them alcohol for any injuries resulting from their drunkenness. For example, if a minor drinks at a bar and trips and falls on their walk home, they may be able to hold the bar liable for their medical expenses.
Visible Intoxication
Establishments are expected to serve alcohol responsibly and are therefore prohibited from serving persons who are visibly intoxicated. If a person becomes intoxicated at a bar and gets into an accident involving a third party on the way home, the innocent party may sue the bar for damages, in addition to the driver.
If an intoxicated driver has injured you, the bartender or restaurant owner who served them past the point of intoxication may be liable for any losses you incur. The Oklahoma City Dram shop liability attorneys of the Abel Law Firm can help you learn more.
Contact Us
Contact an Oklahoma City dram shop attorney today for more information about dram shop laws and liability. Call (405) 239-7046 to speak with a professional about your grounds for filing a legal claim.
