Beer gardens are an increasingly popular venue for Philadelphians. Though they originated in Germany, Philadelphia has its own rich history with the craft beer industry, dating back centuries. A “beer garden” has come to mean any outdoor or open-air establishment where beer is served, typically at a shared table. Trees, wooden benches, freshly prepared meals and music can usually be found in these venues, reflecting an American take on the traditional German setting. Unfortunately, due to the nature of beer gardens, accidents at these types of establishments occur frequently. Any environment that includes large volumes of people and large volumes of alcohol inevitably has the potential to cause serious injury.
If you or a loved one have been injured at a beer garden, you may be entitled to seek compensation for your injuries. The laws of premises liability as well as Pennsylvania’s Dram Shop Statute provide layers of protection for those who have been injured in alcohol-related incidents. The personal injury attorneys at The Reiff Law Firm have the knowledge, personal experience, and commitment necessary to investigate beer garden accidents and hold the owners of bars, restaurants, hotels and social hosts responsible for injuries or deaths caused by a drunk driver. If you have suffered an injury, call us at (215) 709-6940 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.
Who is Responsible for an Injury at a Beer Garden in Philadelphia?
Determining who is actually responsible for an injury occurring at a beer garden can be complicated. These types of venues often have various people who own, rent, run or manage the property and it can be difficult to tell who is actually at fault for an injury. If the venue is a permanent restaurant or bar, the person who owns the property where the beer garden is being run is generally responsible under the laws of premises liability to keep their property safe for guests and patrons.
If the injury occurred at a public place, temporary or rented arena, the owners might be additionally or alternatively responsible. The rules vary depending on the specific facts and circumstances of the case. The ultimate determining factor is who is responsible for maintaining the property. When it comes to beer garden injuries, the answer can range from the City of Philadelphia to a cultural society, group of brewers or other event sponsors. In order to maximize your chances of recovering compensation and hold the appropriate party accountable, it is best to contact an attorney with experience in premises liability.
What is Dram Shop Liability Law in Pennsylvania?
Beer garden injuries need not occur at the actual venue in order to seek compensation. If you have been injured by an intoxicated person leaving a beer garden, Pennsylvania’s Dram Shop Statute might be applicable. In Pennsylvania, people who are harmed by drunk drivers may file lawsuits against irresponsible and reckless bar owners, as well as the intoxicated drinker. An intoxicated person who causes a catastrophic accident or fatality while operating a motor vehicle, as well as the business person, establishment, or social host who gave alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person or minor is legally responsible for any damage that that person may cause. Beer garden owners, operators or servers are under an express duty to stop serving patrons who are visibly intoxicated under Pennsylvania statute 47 P.S. 493. If you have been injured by an intoxicated person leaving a beer garden, the bar owner or bartender may be responsible for over-serving the person who caused the accident.
How Can I Be Compensated for an Injury at a Beer Garden in Philadelphia?
There are many questions to ask to determine the amount and type of compensation you can seek for a beer garden injury, including:
- Was I intoxicated at the time of the injury?
- How much did my own behavior contribute to my injuries?
- Did I seek medical care (including physical therapy, imaging, surgeries, rehab) or visit the emergency room because of my injuries?
- Did I miss work or lose wages because of my injuries?
- Did I experience other pain and suffering?
- Does the venue carry insurance for premises liability lawsuits?
- What were the conditions of the venue like at the time of the accident?
- Who was responsible for maintaining the property?
The Pennsylvania Dram Shop and alcohol-related injury lawyers of The Reiff Law Firm have the experience and knowledge it takes to answer all of your questions and fight for your compensation.
Contact an Experienced Philadelphia Beer Garden Injury Attorney Today
Beer gardens generally provide a fun and relaxed setting for Philadelphians, but they can also be the source of severe injuries. If you or a loved one have been hurt at a beer garden or involved in an accident with a drunk driver leaving a beer garden, it is essential to seek legal help. The experienced beer garden injury attorneys at The Reiff Law Firm have decades of experience representing the rights of those injured by the negligence or recklessness of others. We have the compassion and skilled advocacy it takes to get the compensation you deserve and hold third parties accountable for their actions. If you have suffered an injury at a beer garden or due to a drunk driver, call us at (215) 709-6940 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.
