What is the “dram shop law”?
The “dram shop law” is a type of liquor liability law in Virginia. It states that an establishment that serves alcohol to a patron can be held liable for any damage or injury that the patron causes if he or she became intoxicated while at the establishment. This law applies to any licensed establishment that serves alcoholic beverages, such as bars, restaurants, and liquor stores. In other words, if a patron is served alcohol at the establishment and then causes a car accident or injures a person due to their intoxication, the establishment can be held accountable. The establishment can be held liable for any damages or injury caused by the patron as a result of their intoxication. The law is an effort to discourage establishments from over-serving patrons and placing the safety of innocent people at risk. It also serves to remind bars and restaurants to serve alcohol responsibly to their customers. The dram shop law is an important liability law in Virginia because it holds establishments accountable if they are negligent in serving alcohol to their customers and someone gets hurt as a result. It is important that establishments comply with liquor liability laws in order to protect themselves and the public from harm.
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