Thanksgiving is tomorrow, which means one thing; the holiday season is finally upon us. And for many, that means parties and alcohol. But hosts who serve beer or liquor should be sure to take the necessary steps to limit their liquor liability.
Social host liability, more commonly referred to as “Dram Shop Liability,” is the term for the criminal and civil responsibility of any host who serves alcohol at a party. Currently, 43 states have these types of laws on the books, but the parameters vary from state to state. Some of these laws hold you, the host, responsible for your guests even after they leave your party. So if one of your guests gets into an accident and is found to be over the legal limit, you could be held liable (criminal charges may also apply).
So before you host a party, contact your insurance agency and inquire about your homeowners coverage and any exclusions, conditions or limitations your policy might have for this kind of risk. These policies usually provide some sort of liquor coverage, but it is not much.
So to protect yourself, consider the following measures before throwing your next party:
Review the State Laws: Some states do not pose any liability on social hosts, while others do. Some limit liability to injuries sustained on your premises, others extend that liability to wherever your guests goes after your party.
Host a party at a restaurant or bar: This way the liability does not fall on you.
Hire a professional bartender: Bartenders are trained to limit alcohol consumption.
Encourage the use of designated drivers: This is always a good idea.
Offer non-alcoholic drinks and food to your guests: Eating and drinking plenty of water can help counter the effects of alcohol.
So be smart this Holiday Season and protect yourself and your guests!
If you have any questions, contact the Kennedy Insurance Agency by calling 410-355-1010 or click here today!
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Sources:
Holiday Party Etiquette: A Good Host Is a Responsible Host When It Comes to Serving Alcohol Insurance Information Institute
