Dram Shop Liability

Michigan Dram Shop Liability Attorneys

Under Michigan's Dram Shop Act (MCL 436.1801), a bar, restaurant, or any establishment licensed to serve alcohol can be held liable when they serve alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person who then goes on to injure someone. This applies to drunk driving crashes, assaults, and other alcohol-fueled incidents.

Koussan Law represents victims of alcohol-related injuries throughout Michigan. Dram shop claims add a critical source of compensation beyond the intoxicated individual — because bars and restaurants typically carry significant liability insurance.

What Must Be Proven

To succeed on a dram shop claim in Michigan, the victim must show that the establishment sold or served alcohol to a person who was already visibly intoxicated at the time of service, and that the intoxicated person's subsequent conduct caused the victim's injuries. "Visibly intoxicated" means the person's intoxication would have been apparent to a reasonable, trained server.

Time Limits for Michigan Dram Shop Claims

Michigan law imposes strict notice and filing requirements for dram shop claims. Written notice must be provided to the establishment within 120 days of the incident, and the lawsuit must be filed within two years. Missing these deadlines can result in the complete loss of the claim, making prompt legal counsel essential.