Considering A Dram Shop Case Against Legends Saloon? Here's What You Need To Know
For three decades, I've been holding bars accountable for over-serving alcohol. In the hundreds of cases I've handled, I've seen just how widespread irresponsible alcohol service is, as well as the tragedies that often follow in its wake. While people might see or hear about drunk driving accidents from time to time, rarely do they hear about the role that reckless bars play in those accidents. In order to draw more attention to this issue, I dedicate a portion of my time to investigating the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission's complaint records and reporting my findings here on my website. If you believe you may have a dram shop claim, please call my office at (855) 326-0000.
Legends Saloon is a bar located in Fulton, Texas. Over the years, it has attracted the attention of the TABC due to allegations of liquor law violations. In 2014 alone, authorities conducted two separate investigations into the bar's alcohol service practices.
In my experience, it's uncommon for a bar without a history of run-ins with the TABC to end up on the hook for contributing to a wrongful death or injury. Virtually every bar I have ever sued was already on the authorities' radar. That's why I pay close attention to bars with several recent complaints against them. The more investigations a bar has had, the greater my concern is that it could one day contribute to an accident.
Note: Investigations are not proof of wrongdoing. However, if authorities investigate and fail to find evidence of a violation, it doesn't necessarily mean an establishment is innocent, either. The purpose of this article is simply to relay publicly-available information about incidents where the TABC has investigated Legends Saloon for criminal or administrative violations.
TABC Investigations of Legends Saloon in 2014
Fulton - 3720 Hwy 35 North
Allegations:
Law enforcement contacted the TABC on 02/16/2014, alleging that the bar sold alcohol to a drunk customer.
Upon investigation, authorities were able to confirm the allegation, which they classified as an administrative violation. After deciding not to hand down any punishment, the TABC closed the case on 03/24/2014.
On 10/14/2014, a staff member reached out to the TABC, claiming that a breach of the peace (typically a fight) took place. While it might seem strange that a staff member would be the source of a TABC complaint, employees have a legal obligation to report any violations they see in the workplace.
Authorities looked into the matter and found sufficient evidence to corroborate the claim, which they classified as an administrative violation. After handing down an unspecified penalty, the TABC concluded its work on the case on 12/04/2014.
Texas Law Says Accident Victims Can Sue Bad Bars
If you would like to learn more about Texas dram shop law (i.e. lawsuits against bars who play a role in injurious or fatal accidents), please visit our Texas Dram Shop Law Info Page.