Understanding Premises and Dram Shop Liability Triggers

Claims involving allegations of alcohol intoxication require careful analysis when determining what policy or policies may apply. Two common theories centered on alcohol-related allegations that come into play include premises liability and dram shop liability, according to John P. Cunningham and Julia B. Jackson, presenters on this subject at the recent Property Loss Research Bureau’s national conference in Orlando. Generally, these negligence claims arise from injuries that are caused by intoxicated persons on the landowner’s premises, according to Cunningham, who is vice chairman of the St. Louis-based Brown & James Liability Insurance Litigation Department.