New York Social Host Liability Lawyer
Drunk drivers are not the only parties that can be held responsible in drunk driving crashes that injure others. New York’s Social Host Law makes it possible to sue hosts who over serve alcohol, allow intoxicated guests to continue drinking, or do not stop underage drinking on their premises. The New York Social Host liability lawyers at Cohan Law Firm can help you establish liability on behalf of an irresponsible host whose actions, in part, caused your serious injuries.
The New York State Social Host Liability Law
The New York State Social Host Law provides legal grounds for injured victims to sue individuals who host gatherings where alcohol is served, and as a result of this illegal serving a guest causes a DUI traffic collision. As such, under this social host law, victims are able to seek compensation from parties who were not even on the scene of the crash at the time it occurred.
Serving Alcohol to Minors
It is illegal for anyone under 21 to drink alcohol in New York. The Social Host Law enables anyone over the age of 18, who serves alcohol or allows consumption of alcohol on their premises, to be sued for damages in the event of a collision caused by intoxicated driving.
Serving Alcohol to Intoxicated Guests
Over serving alcohol to already drunk guests, or allowing intoxicated guests to continue drinking, is grounds for liability under the Social Host Law.
Underage Drinking Parties
Parents and other guardians who do not take reasonable corrective action to stop underage drinking parties can be held liable for any injuries that occur as a result of intoxication once the guests leave the premises. As such, it would be possible for a high school party to be thrown at one of the parent’s homes, an underage drinker to commit a DUI injury collision, and for the injured party to sue the parent for damages.
What if the Defendant Proves That They Took Reasonable Corrective Action?
If the defendant can prove that they took reasonable corrective action to stop an intoxicated guest from drinking more, or from underage drinkers from drinking alcohol on their premises, they may be able to avoid liability. However, to do this the host would have to show that they demanded a minor or intoxicated guest to stop drinking or leave the premises. If the guest does not agree, the host is obligated to report the individual to law enforcement if they are a minor. As such, there is a high threshold for proving reasonable corrective action.
Call a New York Social Host Law Attorney Today
New York’s Social Host Law provides an avenue for victims to seek compensation for their medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost income, emotional distress, property damage, and more. If you were harmed by an intoxicated driver, they should be held accountable. The irresponsible party who illegally gave or enabled them to have alcohol should be held accountable as well. Call the New York social host liability attorneys at Cohan Law Firm today at 855-855-0321 for a complimentary consultation.
