Social Host Liability: When Personal Injuries In Miami Happen At Summer House Parties
Local residents and tourists alike flock to Miami for the social scene. In addition to the variety of clubs and restaurants to choose from, there are numerous house parties and private events to attend. Unfortunately, these are common places for accidents to happen, resulting in serious personal injuries. Our Miami personal injury lawyers explain circumstances in which social hosts may be held liable.
Can Hold Social Hosts Liable For Personal Injuries In Miami Caused By Overserving?
Miami has a vibrant social scene year-round, but it really heats up in the summer months. Pool parties, picnics, and other events can provide a lot of fun but it is important to be aware of potential risks.
Generous amounts of alcohol are often served at these events. While there is nothing wrong with enjoying a few drinks, overindulging can seriously jeopardize your safety. Being under the influence increases the odds of accidents, either at the property or on the way home. In some states, social hosts can be held liable for overserving you. Unfortunately, there are limits to this type of legal action in Florida.
Unlike ‘dram shop’ laws which allow bar owners and staff to be held accountable when alcohol-related accidents happen, under the Florida Statutes social hosts are only liable for personal injuries due to serving someone under 21 or with a known alcohol use problem. As a result, guests should take reasonable precautions to protect themselves:
- Make sure you eat and are well-rested before attending events;
- Limit yourself to one or two alcoholic drinks and supplement with plenty of water;
- If you plan on drinking more, make arrangements for someone to drive you home;
- If you are sober and drive yourself home, be on the alert for drunk drivers, particularly during the late night hours.
Personal Injuries Social Hosts Can Be Held Liable For
While social hosts may not be held legally liable for overserving guests, there are other types of negligence that they can be held responsible for. You may be entitled to file a premises liability claim against them, either through their insurer or the Miami-Dade County Civil Court, if you suffer personal injuries due to any of the following:
- Slip and fall accidents, due to hazardous conditions such as wet floors, cluttered walkways, torn carpeting, or uneven flooring tiles;
- Getting struck by or against objects, such as falling tree branches, lighting fixtures, shelving units, and improperly attached decorations;
- Fires, explosions, electrocutions, and other causes of burn injuries;
- Dog bites or other domestic pet and animal attacks.
If they are the owner of the property, they may also be held liable for negligent security if you are injured due to a violent crime that otherwise could have been prevented.
Reach Out To Our Miami Personal Injury Lawyers
If you suffer personal injuries while attending summer events, reach out to Pita Weber & Del Prado. We provide the trusted legal guidance you need to get compensation in a claim. To request a consultation with our experienced Miami personal injury lawyer, call 305-670-2889 or contact us online today.
Sources:
leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0768/Sections/0768.125.html
miamidadeclerk.gov/ocs/
