Attorney
Do you have teenagers who throw parties in your home? Make sure that you pay attention to their behavior and monitor them for alcohol use.
National Public Radio had a very interesting story recently about teen drinking. The news outlet, citing statistics from a study done by the Prevention Research Center in Oakland, California, found that of 1,100 teenagers polled, most said they did not host parties with alcohol.
Nevertheless, of the 39 percent who did, 70 percent said their parents knew kids at the parties were drinking. Additionally, 24 percent said their parents “probably” knew, according to NPR.
This is disturbing for a number of reasons. First, many states have social host and premises liability laws, meaning parents and property owners who provide alcohol to teenagers can be held liable criminally and civilly should an accident occur. This includes any drunk driving accidents that may occur after a party takes place.
Additionally, crimes are more likely to occur when teens drink at parties, including instances of assault and rape. Strangely, of the parents interviewed, many said that they allowed their teens to drink because of excuses like alienating their children and worries that imposing rules may encourage more rebellion.
A Drunk Driver Injured Me. Can I File a Lawsuit?
There are no excuses for allowing a teenager to drink in your presence. Make sure you speak to your children about the dangers of drinking.
As we reported last week, if you or a loved one has been hurt by a drunk driver, it is important to take legal action. A lawsuit could help you get the financial assistance you need to deal with injury treatment.
Make sure you stay safe this New Year’s Eve. Avoid drunk driving. Our attorneys assist injury victims in Fairfax County, Prince William County, Loudoun County and Arlington County.
Koonz McKenney Johnson & DePaolis LLP
Maryland, Washington, D.C. and Virginia Injury Attorneys
Did You Know? Teenagers who abuse alcohol are more likely to abuse other drugs.
Source: http://www.npr.org/blogs/health/2014/12/15/370139147/to-stop-teen-drinking-parties-fine-the-parents