What are the legal implications of serving liquor?
In Washington, under liquor liability law, it is illegal for any person or establishment to serve alcohol to anyone under the age of 21, or to any person who appears to be intoxicated. People who are found to be serving alcohol to underage or intoxicated individuals can face criminal charges and hefty fines. Additionally, anyone who serves alcohol to someone and that person causes an injury or death to another can be found liable for any costs stemming from that injury or death. This is known as Dram Shop Liability. For example, if an establishment serves alcohol to an underage person and that individual gets in a car accident, resulting in injuries to the other driver, the establishment can be held liable for the costs associated with the accident. Finally, establishments that serve liquor may be held liable for incidents that occur on the premises, even if they did not cause the incident. This is known as Premises Liability. If someone is injured at a bar, restaurant, or other establishment that serves liquor, the establishment can be held liable for those injuries, even if they did not cause them. In summary, in Washington, it is important to abide by liquor liability law if operating an establishment that serves liquor. Violating liquor liability law can have serious legal implications, including criminal charges and civil liabilities.
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