Understanding Social Host Liability Laws in Texas
Can You Be Held Responsible for Someone Else’s Drinking?
Hosting friends and family for a night of drinks can feel harmless until someone gets behind the wheel afterward and causes a serious accident. If you’re the person who served them alcohol, you may be wondering: Could I be held responsible? In Texas, the answer depends on the situation.
Understanding how social host liability works is essential, especially if an injury or accident happens after someone drinks on your property. If you or a loved one was injured in a crash involving an intoxicated person, or you’re being accused of contributing to one, here’s what you should know.
If you’re unsure about your rights or what legal options you may have, contact the Adley Law Firm. We offer free consultations and only get paid if you win your case. Se habla español.
What Is Social Host Liability in Texas?
Social host liability refers to a legal situation where someone who provides alcohol, without being a licensed business, can be held liable for injuries or damages caused by an intoxicated guest.
Under Texas law, social host liability is very limited. Generally, adults who serve alcohol at private gatherings are not responsible for what their guests do after they leave. However, there’s a key exception: serving alcohol to minors.
When Can a Social Host Be Held Liable in Texas?
According to the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code, Section 2.02, a person may be held legally responsible if they:
- Are 21 years or older
- Knowingly serve or provide alcohol to someone under the age of 18
- That minor causes injury or death to another person as a direct result of intoxication.
This is often called the “Dram Shop Law” in Texas. While it mostly applies to bars, restaurants, and stores, this specific exception means private individuals can also face liability when minors are involved.
So, if an adult gives alcohol to a teen at a house party, and that teen gets in a car accident, the adult could potentially be sued for damages.
What About Parties With Adults?
For adults 18 and older, Texas law does not hold private hosts responsible for accidents or injuries caused by intoxicated guests, even if the alcohol was served in the host’s home. This means if you host a gathering where your friend overindulges and later causes a crash, you typically won’t be held civilly liable.
That said, you could still face other consequences, such as criminal charges in rare cases (for example, if you knowingly encouraged drunk driving).
What If You Were Injured by a Drunk Driver?
If you or a loved one has been injured by a drunk driver in Texas, your primary legal option is usually to file a personal injury claim against the intoxicated driver. However, if the driver was underage and alcohol was provided by an adult, that adult may also be liable under Texas law.
In some cases, victims can pursue compensation from both the drunk driver and the person who provided the alcohol. This can increase the chances of recovering money for:
- Medical bills
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term care needs
Do You Need a Lawyer for a Social Host Liability Case?
Whether you’re the injured party or being accused of serving alcohol to a minor, these cases can be complex. Liability isn’t always clear-cut, and insurance companies often try to avoid paying out fair compensation.
That’s why it helps to speak with a personal injury lawyer who understands Texas liability laws and has experience handling alcohol-related accident claims.
Talk to a Texas Injury Attorney Today
If you’re dealing with the aftermath of a drunk driving accident, don’t navigate it alone. Whether you’re seeking compensation or facing potential liability, Adley Law Firm is here to help.
Our Houston-based attorneys represent clients across Texas. We offer free consultations, work on a contingency fee basis, and provide bilingual support. Let us fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call us today or contact us online to schedule your free case review.
