When it comes to company holiday parties and social host liability laws, business owners and managers need to be aware of the potential for lawsuits. This blog will discuss when social host liability laws do or do not apply in order to help business owners avoid any legal issues.
Social Host Liability in Georgia
Social host liability laws vary from state to state, but generally speaking, these laws hold business owners and managers responsible for any alcohol-related accidents or injuries that occur on company property. In some states, social host liability laws also apply to off-site company events, such as holiday parties.
Georgia specifically has very strict social host liability laws. Under the state's Dram Shop Act, a person who "willingly and knowingly" provides alcohol to a person under the age of 21 or who is noticeably intoxicated and will be driving a vehicle can be held liable if the drunk individual causes a car crash.
Does This Apply to Company Events?
The answer to this question is maybe. If the company holiday party is held on company property, then the business owner or manager could potentially be held liable under Georgia's social host laws. However, if the party is held off-site, the business owner or manager may not always assume liability. It's also worth noting that even if the party is held off-site, the business owner or manager could still be held liable if he or she served alcohol to a minor or someone who was noticeably intoxicated.
Savannah Dram Shop Case Attorneys
Knowing who allowed a drunk driver to get behind the wheel can be important in pursuing a claim against a drunk driver. In some cases, the Georgia dram shop law may be utilized to determine if a host or vendor should assume some responsibility for the crash. If you have questions about how these laws may apply in your case, call (912) 809-5335 for a free consultation with Jamie Casino Injury Attorneys.