Dram Shop Liability

Holding Establishments Accountable for Overserving Alcohol

When an establishment’s negligence results in harm, the consequences can be devastating. At Gross, Gross, & Newman Law, we represent victims of alcohol-related injuries caused by overserving. Our team is dedicated to pursuing justice for those impacted by dram shop violations and ensuring that businesses are held accountable for their actions.

We can help.
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Investigating the establishment’s practices and identifying overserving incidents.

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Working with experts to establish how negligence contributed to the injuries.

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Gathering evidence, including surveillance footage and witness statements, to prove liability.

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Pursuing maximum compensation for medical bills, emotional trauma, and other damages.

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Advocating for Victims of Alcohol-Related Negligence

Dram shop liability refers to the responsibility of establishments that serve alcohol to individuals who are visibly intoxicated or underage. When these individuals cause harm—such as through a drunk driving accident or an altercation—the establishment may be held accountable. At Gross, Gross, & Newman Law, we have extensive experience handling these complex cases, fighting for the rights of victims and ensuring negligent businesses are brought to justice.

These cases often require meticulous investigation to uncover evidence of overserving. Our team works diligently to review bar tabs, receipts, and security footage, as well as interview witnesses who can attest to the establishment’s negligence. By building a compelling case, we aim to secure the compensation our clients deserve.

We understand the emotional and financial toll these cases can take. That’s why we’re committed to providing compassionate legal support while aggressively pursuing justice. Whether you’ve been injured in a drunk driving accident or harmed by an intoxicated individual, our team will stand by your side throughout the legal process.

  • Have you or your family member been harmed by a drunk driver who left a bar?

    “Dram Shop” laws impose legal liability on bars, restaurants and other facilities that serve or sell alcoholic beverages irresponsibly. When alcohol is sold or served to a person who is visibly intoxicated, this can significantly increase the chances that a drunk driving accident will occur.


    • In Pennsylvania, drinking and driving remains a top safety issue, with nearly 10,000 alcohol-related crashes yearly and around 300 alcohol-related fatalities.
    • Alcohol-related deaths constitute about 28% of total traffic fatalities in the state.
    • Around 70% of alcohol-related crashes occur during the hours of darkness, usually on weekends.
    • On average each day, 26 alcohol-related traffic crashes occur in Pennsylvania, with 16 people injured.

    Dram shop cases successfully concluded by the attorneys at the Law Offices of Bernard M. Gross, P.C. include recoveries for:


    • A grade-school teacher in his 20s killed by a drunk driver
    • Injuries sustained in an I-95 vehicle roll-over after a driver left a bar
    • A driver leaving a restaurant after being overserved and dying after crashing into a utility pole

    Ask Our Attorneys in Philadelphia for Help


    Here at the Law Offices Bernard M. Gross, P.C., in Philadelphia, PA, we are highly experienced and successful in fighting for victims’ rights in dram shop liability cases. Establishments that sell and serve alcohol have responsibilities, and dram shop laws exist to hold them accountable. If you were hurt or if someone you care about sustains injuries or death due to an intoxicated and overserved driver, we are here to help you recover full compensation. Call to schedule your FREE consultation by dialing 215-561-3600 or use our “contact us” box available here to send us a message.  We are here for you and ready to protect your rights.

FAQs

  • What is dram shop liability?

    Dram shop liability refers to laws holding establishments responsible for serving alcohol to visibly intoxicated or underage patrons who go on to cause harm. These laws are designed to prevent negligence by bars, restaurants, and other alcohol-serving businesses, and to provide victims with a path to recover damages.

  • What types of cases fall under dram shop liability?

    Common cases include drunk driving accidents, assaults, or other incidents where an intoxicated individual causes harm. The key factor is proving that the establishment’s overserving or negligence contributed directly to the event.

  • How do you prove a dram shop liability case?

    Proof often involves gathering receipts, surveillance footage, and witness testimony showing that the individual was served alcohol despite being visibly intoxicated or underage. Expert opinions and police reports can also strengthen the case.

  • Can I sue a bar or restaurant if I was injured by a drunk driver?

    Yes, if the establishment overserved the driver and this contributed to the accident. Pennsylvania’s dram shop laws allow victims to seek compensation from the establishment in addition to the intoxicated individual.

  • What compensation can I receive in a dram shop case?

    Victims may recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. In some cases, punitive damages may also apply to penalize the establishment for egregious negligence.

  • How long do I have to file a dram shop liability claim?

    In Pennsylvania, you typically have two years from the date of the incident to file a dram shop liability claim. However, acting quickly allows your attorney to gather critical evidence while it’s still fresh.

  • Are dram shop liability cases difficult to win?

    These cases can be complex, as they require proving both the establishment’s negligence and its contribution to the harm caused. Working with experienced attorneys, like those at Gross, Gross, & Newman Law, greatly improves your chances of success.

  • How much does legal representation cost for dram shop cases?

    At Gross, Gross, & Newman Law, we work on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing upfront, and we only collect a fee if we win your case, ensuring access to high-quality representation regardless of financial circumstances.