As we reported last week, if you plan to throw a party for New Year’s Eve this week, make sure that you have designated drivers available for guests.
Remember, there are social host and premises liability laws that protect injury victims, meaning you can be held liable if an accident takes place involving an intoxicated guest. This can include slip-and-fall accidents and potentially any drunk driving accidents taking place after a party.
That said—make sure you avoid serving alcohol to minors. Recently, National Public Radio had an interesting story about teen drinking, showing that underage people are drinking at parties that their parents allow to take place.
NPR, using data provided by the Prevention Research Center in Oakland, California, reported that a poll of 1,100 teenagers showed that most teens do not attend parties where drinking takes place. However, of the 39 percent who said they do, 70 percent said their parents knew they were drinking.
This is unacceptable. Many parents told researchers “everything from concern about alienating their children to worries that imposing strict rules might encourage more dangerous rebellion” is why they allowed their teens to drink.
Again, you should avoid serving teenagers alcohol. Not only can you be held criminally responsible for your actions, you can be held civilly liable for any accidents that may take place.
How Can I Speak to an Attorney about a Drunk Driving Accident?
Whenever a drunk driver causes a car accident, he or she can be held liable. Through a lawsuit, a victim can recover damages for pain and suffering, as well as injury treatment, like physical therapy and rehabilitation.
Contact our office today for more information. We hold drunk drivers liable for any injuries or deaths they cause. Have a safe and happy New Year.
Source: http://www.npr.org/blogs/health/2014/12/15/370139147/to-stop-teen-drinking-parties-fine-the-parents