How Dram Shop Laws Work in Nevada
The responsible serving of alcohol is a major concern for all of us that share Las Vega’s roads. Las Vegas saw over 37 million visitors in 2023. As such, it is paramount that regulations are in place to protect both those who live in and are visiting the city and surrounding area.
Nevada, like many other states, has laws in place related to the liability of establishments that serve alcohol. These laws are often referred to as “Dram Shop” laws. However, Nevada’s are much more limited than similar laws in other states. In Nevada, places that serve alcohol to patrons are only responsible for the injuries they may cause to others in certain limited circumstances.
Here’s what you need to know about Nevada’s Dram Shop Laws: Dram shop laws in Nevada permit the filing of a dram shop lawsuit against a business or individual who serves or sells alcohol to a minor under the age of 21. However, they do prohibit Dram shop claims against businesses or individuals who provide alcohol to persons over the age of 21.
If you have suffered an injury due to negligence on the part of a business or person that served alcohol, email or call our legal team at (702) 291-8007 for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our Las Vegas accident and injury attorneys, as well as our knowledgeable staff, have experience helping individuals that have been injured in alcohol-related accidents, fighting to get them the compensation they deserve. Contact our office today.
What is Considered a Dram Shop in Nevada?
A Dram Shop traditionally refers to any establishment that serves alcoholic beverages, such as a bar, restaurant, or club. Of course, there are many such businesses in Las Vegas. In most states, Dram Shop laws have been set in place to hold these establishments accountable for the consequences of over-serving patrons who later cause harm to themselves or others due to alcohol-related impairment. In Nevada, however, the applicable laws make it much more difficult to hold such pirates responsible. The Dram Shop laws are codified under Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) Chapter 41, specifically NRS 41.1305. These laws outline the circumstances where a person or establishment serving alcohol can or can’t be held liable for injuries or damages that have been caused by an intoxicated patron.
Key Points of Nevada’s Dram Shop Laws
It is important to understand the main ideas of Nevada’s Dram Shop laws and how they are relevant in cases where someone has been injured due to the intoxication of a patron at a Dram Shop. Here’s the two key points you need to know:
1. Serving Minors Under the Age of 21
Nevada’s Dram Shop laws are very strict when it comes to serving alcohol to minors. If an establishment serves or sells alcohol to someone under the age of 21, and that individual later causes harm due to alcohol consumption, the establishment can be held liable for damages.
2. Social Host Liability
Dram Shop laws apply not only to commercial establishments like clubs and restaurants but also to social hosts. If an individual hosts a private event where alcohol is served to a minor, and that minor causes harm to themselves or someone else, causes harm due to intoxication, the host may be held liable.
Holding Dram Shops Accountable in NV Personal Injury Cases
Establishing liability under Nevada’s limited Dram Shop laws can require a thorough understanding of the legal nuances in these types of cases. For victims seeking justice and fair compensation, Dram Shop laws serve as a tool to hold those responsible accountable and provide a pathway to recovery for the damages incurred due to alcohol-related incidents.
Contact A Nevada Dram Shop Liability Lawyer Near You Today!
Understanding Nevada’s Dram Shop laws is essential for both establishments serving alcohol and patrons who may be affected by the actions of an intoxicated individual. If you have suffered an injury due to negligence on the part of a Dram Shop, email or call our legal team at (702) 291-8007 for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our expert team of hit by a drunk driver in Nevada, Las Vegas car accident and personal injury attorneys are here to help.
If your Dram Shop liability case involves a commercial vehicle or motorcycle accident, we have the added expetise in those areas as well and will get you the compensation you need and deserve! Contact us today or call us at (702) 291-8007!
