Racine Dram Shop Liability Attorneys
In the state of Wisconsin, the law regarding underage drinking is significantly less stringent than other states. However, with these additional freedoms come additional responsibilities. Parents and legal guardians can allow their children to drink as long as they are under parental supervision. Yet, if these children get behind the wheel and cause an accident, the establishment that provided the alcohol may be held legally liable. Known as dram shop liability laws, the punishments for violating these alcohol laws can be quite severe.
You may be entitled to seek financial compensation through a civil lawsuit if you have been injured in an accident caused by an intoxicated, underage motorist. Contact the Racine dram shop liability lawyers of Habush Habush & Rottier S.C. ®, at 800-242-2874 to speak directly with a passionately committed and experienced attorney about your potential case.
Punishments for Dram Shop Offenses
In Wisconsin, dram shop liability laws only affect establishments that serve underage drinkers. This penalty for alcohol-serving establishments such as bars and taverns adds a level of responsibility for bartenders and servers, with an aim to encourage these individuals to monitor their young patrons closely. If a young person does cause an accident leading to injury, the following penalties may be imposed on the individual or establishment who served them:
- Sentenced to up to 7 ½ years in prison
- Ordered fines of up to $10,000
- Felony prosecution
- Required to pay compensation for civil damages
Considering that young drinkers may not be accustomed to their own limits, it is the general responsibility of their servers to determine when their patrons appear to be near the point of intoxication.
Contact Us
If you have been injured by an underage drinker, there may be legal action available to you. Wisconsin’s dram shop liability laws are meant to protect everyone on the road from irresponsible young drinkers, fighting the problem at the source. For more information regarding your legal options, contact the Racine dram shop liability lawyers of Habush Habush & Rottier S.C. ®, by calling 800-242-2874.
