Soccer Star Sues Nightclub Over Drunk Driving Accident
Soccer star Charlie Davies, of the Major League Soccer team DC United, has filed a $20 million lawsuit against a nightclub and the organizers of a party who served alcohol to a drunk driver responsible for an accident that severely injured Davies and killed another passenger. The suit contends that the companies continued to serve the driver despite the fact that he was clearly drunk and they are therefore responsible for the injuries to Davies and the wrongful death of the passenger.
The accident in question occured in October 2009. Davies suffered massive injuries, including a ruptured bladder, bleeding in the brain, and facial, rib, and leg injuries. A passenger in Davies' car also died. Davies' injuries forced him to miss playing for the US National Team in the 2010 World Cup. The drunk driver is currently serving two years in jail for manslaughter. Davies' suit is seeking compensation for his ongoing medical expenses, lost wages, and mental anguish.
This suit highlights the role bars, restaurants, and other establishments that serve alcohol play in preventing drunk driving accidents. "Overserving," or serving a patron who is already clearly intoxicated, is illegal and subject the same punishment as serving a minor. Establishments that overserve can also be held legally liable for the damages that result from a drunk driving accident.
