Personal Injury

Pennsylvania Dram Shop Law

The term “dram shop” comes from England, where gin was once sold by the spoonful—or “dram.” Today, Pennsylvania’s Dram Shop Statute holds alcohol vendors and even private hosts accountable for serving alcohol irresponsibly.

When the Dram Shop Law Applies

Under Pennsylvania law, it is illegal for a licensed establishment—such as a bar, restaurant, or hotel—to serve alcohol to:

  • A visibly intoxicated person, or
  • A minor.

The statute has also been extended to private events where alcohol is served. Liability may also arise if:

  • Alcohol is served after legal hours, or
  • Alcohol is served by someone or at a location without a proper license.

In such cases, the server or business may face criminal charges and civil liability for damages caused by the intoxicated person.

Liability for Injuries

If an intoxicated person causes harm—such as a serious car accident or a bar fight—the establishment that overserved them can be held financially responsible. Damages may include:

  • Medical expenses
  • Pain and suffering
  • Lost wages and other economic losses

Importantly, Pennsylvania law also allows the intoxicated individual themselves to bring a claim against the establishment for their own injuries.

Why Choose Our Firm?

Dram shop cases are complex. They often involve proving that a person was “visibly intoxicated” when served, which may require witness testimony, receipts, surveillance footage, or toxicology evidence. These cases can also involve multiple defendants, including the drunk driver, the bar, and even event hosts. You need a firm with experience, dedication, and proven results.

Get Your Free Consultation Today

Our firm offers a free consultation where we will evaluate your case and answer all of your questions. If you are unable to visit our office, we will even visit you in the hospital or come to your home.

Important: Statute of Limitations

Our office has handled hundreds of drunken driving cases. If you or someone you know has been injured or killed in an accident involving a drunk driver, or you were served illegally, contact us today for your free consultation.

Disclaimer

The information contained herein is dedicated to providing public information regarding Family Law issues in Pennsylvania. None of the information on this site is intended to be formal legal advice, nor the formation of an attorney-client relationship. Please contact our law firm for information regarding your particular case. This website is not intended to solicit clients outside the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.