Is serving alcohol to someone who is obviously intoxicated considered illegal?
Yes, it is illegal to serve alcohol to someone who is obviously intoxicated in Washington state. Under the state’s liquor liability law, it is a crime to serve alcohol to someone who is either obviously intoxicated, or to someone who is under 21. This applies to all establishments that serve alcohol, including bars, restaurants, and liquor stores. Serving alcohol to someone who is obviously intoxicated can have serious consequences. It is considered a gross misdemeanor, which carries a penalty of up to a year in jail and a fine of up to $5,000. It can also result in civil liability, as the person who served the alcohol may be held accountable for any damages caused by the intoxicated person, such as a car accident or injury. To protect themselves from potential liability, establishments should make sure that a person is not obviously intoxicated before serving them alcohol. This can be accomplished by ensuring that all employees are properly trained to identify signs of intoxication, and that drinks are served responsibly. Employees should also be trained to intervene if they see someone who appears to be intoxicated.
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