Justice After Tragedy: Holding Bars and Restaurants Accountable Under the Texas Dram Shop Act

When a person is seriously injured—or a life is tragically lost—because of the reckless decision to serve alcohol to someone already intoxicated, the impact is life-altering. These situations are heartbreaking and preventable. At Turner-Monahan PLLC, we are committed to helping victims and their families find justice and accountability for these needless tragedies.

 

What Is the Texas Dram Shop Act?

 

The Texas Dram Shop Act is a law that allows individuals and families to hold alcohol-serving businesses (like bars, restaurants, and private clubs) liable if they serve alcohol to someone who is obviously intoxicated, and that person goes on to cause harm, most commonly in a drunk driving accident.

 

Under the law, a business can be held responsible if:

 

  • They provided, sold, or served alcohol to a person who was clearly intoxicated to the point of being a danger to themselves or others, and

 

  • That intoxication was a proximate cause of the damages suffered, such as injury or death.

 

Who Can File a Claim?

 

If you or a loved one was injured due to a drunk driver who consumed alcohol at a bar, restaurant, or other licensed alcohol provider, you may have a claim under the Texas Dram Shop Act.

 

Common claimants include:

 

  • Individuals injured in alcohol-related crashes
  • Families who have lost loved ones due to drunk driving
  • Victims of assaults or other injuries involving intoxicated persons

 

Why These Claims Matter

 

Pursuing a Dram Shop case isn’t just about compensation—it’s about accountability. Establishments that profit from serving alcohol have a responsibility to do so safely. When they ignore visible signs of intoxication or fail to follow proper training protocols, they endanger lives.

 

By holding these businesses accountable, we not only seek justice for our clients but also help create safer communities by encouraging responsible alcohol service.

 

What Damages Can Be Recovered?

 

Depending on the circumstances, plaintiffs may be entitled to recover:

 

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Mental anguish
  • Funeral and burial expenses (in wrongful death cases)
  • Loss of companionship or consortium

 

Our Approach at Turner Monahan PLLC

 

Dram Shop cases can be complex, requiring quick investigation, witness interviews, video evidence, and often expert testimony. Our team at Turner Monahan PLLC is experienced in navigating these challenges. We work closely with investigators, toxicologists, and industry experts to build strong, evidence-based cases on behalf of our clients.

 

We understand the emotional toll these cases take, and we approach every client with compassion, care, and relentless advocacy.

 

Take the First Step Toward Justice

 

If you or someone you love has been harmed by the actions of an intoxicated individual—and you believe a bar or restaurant may have played a role—it’s important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible. Time is critical in preserving evidence and protecting your rights.

 

Contact Turner Monahan PLLC for a confidential consultation. Let us stand by your side and fight for the justice and accountability you deserve.

 

Final Thoughts

 

For some injured individuals, securing a legal victory is just one step in the journey toward healing and recovery. By selecting the proper structured settlement for their needs, an injured individual can gain peace of mind knowing their financial future is protected.

 

If you or a loved one has been hurt because of someone else’s negligence, the experienced personal injury attorneys of Turner-Monahan, PLLC, can assist you in not only seeking compensation but in turning that compensation into lasting financial security. Because there are strict time limits within which a claim for personal injuries must be made, schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with attorneys Tyler Monahan or Matthew McLain to discuss your case and explore your options. Let us help you achieve the justice and compensation you deserve.

 

Disclaimer

 

The commentary and opinions are for informational and educational purposes only and not to provide legal or tax advice. You should contact an attorney in your state to obtain legal advice concerning any particular issue or problem. You can become a client and enter the attorney-client privilege only after hiring Turner-Monahan, PLLC, by signing a written agreement.

 

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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Before I can file for divorce in Fort Worth Tx, how long must I reside in TX?
Prior to filing for divorce in the state of Texas, a person must have resided in the state of Texas for a period of six months, and in the county in which a person wishes to file for divorce for a period of three months or longer.
Before a TX divorce is granted, is there a waiting period?
The waiting period prior to a court having the ability to finalize a divorce proceeding, 60 days must have elapsed from the date of filing of the initial petition for divorce.
What are the grounds for divorce in Fort Worth?
There are no specific grounds that must be requested or required, and insupportability is a ground that is most frequently used.
How much does it cost to file for divorce in Fort Worth?
 The cost to file a petition for divorce in Tarrant County per the district clerk is approximately $310.00, plus fees to get the Respondent served.
How can I serve divorce papers to my spouse in the Fort Worth Area?
A process server must be used to personally serve a Respondent to a divorce petition, unless the Respondent will sign a waiver of service.

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