Dram Shop Liquor Liability Laws in Pennsylvania

Scartelli Olszewski P.C.

You’re involved in an accident. The other driver was drunk. It’s determined to be their fault, but is that driver the only one liable? The establishment that served them alcohol could also be found legally responsible as well with a Dram Shop Law like the one we have here in Pennsylvania.

What is a Dram Shop Liability Law?

These laws state that, if an establishment serves alcoholic beverages to a visibly intoxicated person or to a minor and then that person causes death or injury or even in some cases property damage from a car crash or other accident because of it, the establishment that served them may be found to be at fault as well.

These laws serve to protect the public and keep us safe and disincentivize bars and restaurants from serving alcohol to visibly intoxicated individuals and to minors.

What is a “Dram Shop” Anyway?

The term “dram” dates back to the 18th century, when alcohol was commonly measured in small units known as drams, which is roughly equivalent to ¾ of a teaspoon. It was a standard way to portion out liquor in taverns and pubs, particularly in Britain and Colonial America. Patrons could walk into a bar and order a dram of gin, rum, or whiskey.

Over time, the term “dram shop” came to refer to any establishment that sold alcohol by the dram. The term has mostly faded away, but stuck around in legal contexts, especially here in the United States.

While modern bartenders aren’t pouring liquor in ¾ teaspoon servings anymore, the legacy of the dram lives on through these laws, which aim to promote responsible alcohol service and protect public safety.

What Can We Do?

Dram Shop cases are often complex and require proving that a bar, restaurant, or other establishment served alcohol to someone who was visibly intoxicated or underage which is rarely obvious or well-documented. We can help. If you are injured or a loved one is killed in an alcohol-related accident, call the experienced attorneys at Scartelli Olszewski, P.C at (570) 346-2600. We will help you get justice and the compensation you deserve. You can also contact us online!