Minor in Drunk Driving Accident, can I be blamed?
My husband's friend from work came to our house and drank our alcohol without our consent. The friend subsequently was in a car accident which he was at fault for. We only found out later that he was 19 years old (under age) He was arrested after given field sobriety test, wrecked his dad's car and damaged the other driver's vehicle. So now the father is wanting to file charges against my husband because he is saying that we gave him the alcohol. Which no one in our house was drinking or saw him drinking. Can he do this? And can the other driver file charges as well? What is the worst case scenario?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Minor in Drunk Driving Accident, can I be blamed?
The charges that could be brought against you are called Making Alcohol Available to a Minor.
This is a Class A misdemeanor and has a punishment range of up to a year in jail and a four thousand dollar fine.
However there would have to be proof that you made the alcohol available to the minor.
The other driver could file a civil suit against you however they would have a hard time proving negligence on your part.
If you have any questions or if I can be of help feel free to contact me.
Sincerely,
Erick Platten
PLATTEN LAW OFFICE
TylerJustice.com
903-593-9100