How can I protect my business from a liquor liability claim?
Protecting your business from a liquor liability claim in California requires that you understand state liquor laws and rules of due care. The most important step is to ensure that you and your staff properly check IDs and refrain from serving alcohol to minors or visibly intoxicated people. Additionally, state law requires all alcohol sellers to post a warning sign that reads: “Under the California Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, it is a crime to furnish alcohol to a person under the age of 21 or to a visibly intoxicated person. A conviction can result in a fine up to $1,000, or imprisonment for up to 6 months, or both.” Staff should be trained in the proper handling of alcohol and all alcohol laws. Establish a clear policy that prohibits staff from giving away alcohol, including complimentary drinks. All staff who are serving alcohol should also be trained in responsible alcohol service, including how to identify and refuse service to visibly intoxicated people. It is also important to have a policy in place requiring the use of designated drivers. This includes designating a certain individual to monitor the number of drinks that are served. Lastly, provide alternate activities and non-alcoholic drinks. This can help to keep people from drinking too much and reducing the risk of alcohol-related incidents.
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