Could a business be liable for a deadly drunk driving crash?

Most people recognize that getting behind the wheel after drinking puts them at risk of causing a devastating crash. Unfortunately, not everyone prioritizes their own safety or the safety of others. The convenience of getting their vehicle home may overwhelm their better judgment.

Some drunk driving crashes have tragic consequences. A pedestrian or a person in another vehicle could die because someone chose to drive while drunk. Obviously, a drunk driver is responsible for their own actions. However, they may lack the assets necessary to compensate the people they’ve harmed.

Could a business ever be liable for a drunk driving crash?

Business liability is relatively common

After a drunk driver causes a wrongful death, the grieving people left behind could take action against the impaired motorist. If the drunk driver lacks the necessary resources to compensate survivors, then looking into other options could be helpful.

There are two common scenarios in which businesses may be at least partially liable for drunk driving collisions. If the drunk driver was technically on the clock while driving in an impaired state, their employer could be liable for the consequences of their choices. Vicarious liability passes responsibility to employers when workers on the clock harm others through negligence.

Dram shop rules could also apply after a fatal drunk driving crash. If there is proof that a bar or restaurant served a minor or a person already visibly under the influence, it may be possible to file a lawsuit against the bar or restaurant that violated alcohol service rules.

Reviewing the circumstances surrounding a deadly drunk driving crash with a skilled legal team can help families pursue justice. Businesses often have larger insurance policies and more resources, making a lawsuit against a business a potentially viable option after a fatal drunk driving crash.