Personal injury plaintiffs’ lawyers have found a new niche market in the wake of the global pandemic. They are filing lawsuits against hotels and other establishments for negligent exposure to COVID-19 when customers claim they contracted the virus while on their property. Although it is too early to know how these claims will play out…
From shutdowns to curfews, capacity restrictions to required outdoor dining, bar and restaurant owners across the nation are jumping through hoops to try to keep their businesses open and viable. The entire service industry has been severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many bar and restaurant owners have become increasingly frustrated with the back-and-forth actions…
As the novel coronavirus (or COVID-19) continues to spread, the World Health Organization officially declared it a pandemic on March 11, 2020. Less than a week later, Mayor Turner ordered the closure of Houston restaurants and bars to encourage “social distancing” in an attempt to stop the spread of the virus. We continue to see the…
Many restaurants, hotels, and other businesses in the hospitality industry serve alcoholic beverages. These businesses are licensed to sell alcohol through state Alcohol Beverage Control agencies. Despite most states requiring additional training and certifications for those serving alcohol – including how to recognize intoxicated patrons – in order for a business to maintain its liquor…
There are many businesses that can fall within the classification of a “dram shop.” Dram shop is a term used to describe any establishment where alcohol is sold and consumed, including bars, nightclubs, and restaurants. Businesses can face a variety of liabilities when the distribution of alcohol is involved. Because of this, Texas dram shop laws are in place to protect against the overselling of alcohol. Here are four aspects of Texas dram shop law about which business owners should be aware.