Are social hosts liable for damages caused by an intoxicated guest?

In North Carolina, social hosts can be held liable for damages under liquor liability laws if an intoxicated guest causes an injury. North Carolina is a “dram shop” state, meaning that if a person serves or provides alcohol to a minor or an adult that is already visibly intoxicated, the server may be held liable for damages caused by the intoxicated guest. This includes social hosts that serve alcohol in their homes. If someone is injured in an accident caused by an intoxicated guest, the injured person can sue the social host to recover for their damages, such as medical bills or lost wages. For example, if an intoxicated guest leaves a house party and causes a car crash, the injured person can sue the social host for any money damages they suffer from the accident. When determining if a social host is liable for damages, the court would look at the circumstances surrounding the social event. Generally, if the social host knew or should have known that the guest was intoxicated, then the social host may be liable for any damages caused. Therefore, it is important for social hosts to be aware of their guests’ behavior and not serve alcohol to someone that is visibly intoxicated.

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Are social hosts liable for damages caused by an intoxicated guest?

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