Social Host Liability
Who’s responsible when a legally-impaired house guest drives away and injures or kills someone?
[USA] In the United States, the discussion over such “social host” liability varies from state to state.[CANADA] In Canada, however, the Supreme Court pretty much shut the door on the idea that a host could be held responsible – apparently, house guests have the “autonomy” to drive away drunk. This autonomy, however, appears to be lost of the impaired-guest/driver is underage.
Canada Safety Council: Contains a very good overview on Social Host Liability. An excellent resource for getting up to speed regardless of where you live. Also contains information on Commercial Host Liability.
socialhostliability.org: Hosted by the Boston law firm of Campbell, Campbell, Edwards & Conroy. In their words “this website focuses on the furnishing of alcohol to guests who are minors. The social host laws vary considerably from state to state, so be sure to refer to the law of your state for more specific information.” Great advice.
Commercial Host Liability
Adding more … if you’ve some good sites that are worth sharing. Send me a comment and I’ll add them in.
Cheers.
December 29, 2007 at 12:13 pm |
From the home page of the blog look for stories under the following titles:
Alcohol Liability
Host Liability
January 29, 2008 at 11:21 am |
I don’t think parents know how easy it is to get sued for host liability. Even if things seem to be in control, accidents can and do happen.
We’ve been getting more and more calls from parents who realize that in order to reduce under age drinking at graduation parties, they need to organize well structured, booze – free events and that these event must be a lot of fun (otherwise kids wont show up).
http://www.wire.hijinx.tv/2008/01/graduation-party-ideas-safety-fun-in-ny.html