Bloomington Dram Shop Lawyer
When alcohol is served irresponsibly, the consequences can be life-altering. Whether it’s a drunk driving crash, a bar fight, or an assault involving an intoxicated individual, victims often suffer serious injuries—and someone must be held accountable. In Illinois, the Dram Shop Act allows victims to take legal action against bars, restaurants, or liquor stores that served the alcohol leading to the harm.
Our Bloomington dram shop lawyers fight for those impacted by alcohol-related injuries. At Dodds Law Office, we understand how to navigate dram shop claims and are committed to holding negligent establishments responsible. These cases require fast action, solid evidence, and deep knowledge of state laws—and we’re equipped to deliver.
Why Choose Dodds Law Office for Your Dram Shop Case?
Dodds Law Office brings trusted experience, local insight, and a results-driven approach to every dram shop case. Attorney Terry Dodds knows the ins and outs of Illinois liability laws and fights aggressively to hold negligent establishments accountable. From thorough investigations to strategic legal action, we’re committed to securing the compensation you need. With personalized attention and no fees unless we win, you can trust us to stand up for your rights from day one.
If you or someone you love has been injured due to someone else’s intoxication, don’t wait. You may have a limited window to file a claim. Contact us today for a free consultation. 309-807-3600.
I had an exceptional experience working with Terry Dodds. Their professionalism, expertise, and dedication were evident throughout my case. From the initial consultation to the final resolution, Terry Dodds provided clear guidance, compassionate support, and meticulous attention to detail. Their deep understanding of the law and ability to navigate complex legal issues were truly impressive. I felt confident and reassured knowing they were handling my case. I highly recommend Terry Dodds to anyone seeking top-notch legal representation.
Holding Establishments Accountable for Alcohol-Related Injuries
In Illinois, businesses that serve alcohol—such as bars, restaurants, and liquor stores—have a legal responsibility not to over-serve patrons who may become a danger to others. Under the Illinois Dram Shop Act, these establishments can be held liable if they sell or provide alcohol to someone who later causes injury or property damage due to intoxication.
This law is particularly important in cases involving drunk driving accidents, assaults, or other alcohol-fueled incidents. If an intoxicated individual injures you, and their alcohol consumption can be traced back to a specific licensed business, you may have a valid claim against that establishment.
To succeed in a dram shop case, you must prove four key elements: the at-fault party was intoxicated, a licensed business served or sold them alcohol, their intoxication was the cause of your injuries, and you suffered actual damages.
Illinois Dram Shop Laws and Your Rights
Illinois Dram Shop laws give victims of alcohol-related incidents the right to seek compensation from establishments that serve alcohol to visibly intoxicated individuals or minors. If someone becomes intoxicated at a licensed bar, restaurant, or liquor store and causes injury or property damage, the business may be legally responsible. These laws aim to reduce alcohol-related harm and promote responsible service practices.
Illinois enforces a one-year statute of limitations on dram shop claims, so victims must act quickly when seeking compensation. Additionally, dram shop settlements face damage caps, or limits on how much money can be awarded in a case. As of 2025, Illinois caps dram shop damages at $107,618.82, and these limits are adjusted annually by the Illinois Comptroller.
Who Can Be Held Liable Under the Illinois Dram Shop Act?
Under the Illinois Dram Shop Act, businesses licensed to sell or serve alcohol can be held legally responsible if they provide alcohol to someone who then causes injury, death, or property damage due to intoxication. This includes bars, taverns, nightclubs, restaurants, liquor stores, and even event venues with temporary liquor licenses.
Importantly, individuals (like party hosts) who are not licensed to serve or sell alcohol are generally not liable under this law. However, businesses that allow underage drinking or knowingly serve minors may also face additional penalties and liability.
Call Dodds Law Office to hold the negligent party accountable in your dram shop case. 309-807-3600.
Common Scenarios Leading to Dram Shop Liability in Bloomington
Establishments that serve alcohol must follow strict laws regarding the sale and service of liquor. When they fail to do so responsibly, the consequences can be life-changing. The Illinois Dram Shop Act allows injured victims to hold these businesses accountable—but only under certain circumstances. Some of the most common scenarios that lead to dram shop liability in Bloomington include:
Drunk Driving Accidents
One of the most frequent dram shop claims involves drivers who leave a bar or restaurant intoxicated and cause a car crash. If an establishment served alcohol to a patron whose resulting intoxication contributed to an auto accident, the business may be held liable for damages resulting from the crash. This applies whether the intoxicated driver hit another vehicle, a pedestrian, or caused property damage.
Bar Fights and Assaults
Alcohol-fueled violence is another common trigger for dram shop liability. If a patron becomes intoxicated and assaults someone inside or outside the bar, the establishment may be responsible for contributing to the intoxication that led to the violent behavior. This includes fights in parking lots, altercations with bouncers, or incidents involving innocent bystanders.
Serving Minors
Illinois law prohibits serving alcohol to anyone under the legal drinking age of 21. If a bar or restaurant serves a minor who then becomes intoxicated and causes harm—such as a DUI crash or a physical altercation—the establishment may face both criminal charges and civil liability under the Dram Shop Act.
Public Events and Festivals
In Bloomington, popular events like the Sugar Creek Arts Festival or tailgates near Illinois Wesleyan University can present risks when alcohol is served irresponsibly. Temporary vendors and mobile bars are still subject to Illinois dram shop laws and can be held liable if they contribute to an attendee’s intoxication and that person causes an injury.
How a Bloomington Dram Shop Attorney Can Help Your Case
When you’re injured due to someone else’s intoxication, Dodds Law Office is ready to help you hold negligent establishments accountable. With deep knowledge of Illinois Dram Shop laws, we will investigate your case and develop a strong legal strategy to pursue full compensation. We know how to navigate liability issues and meet tight filing deadlines. From settlement negotiations to courtroom litigation, Dodds Law Office fights for your rights—so you can focus on healing.
Why You Need a Dram Shop Lawyer in Illinois
Dram shop cases are complex and time-sensitive, requiring a deep understanding of liability laws and strong evidence to prove an establishment’s role in an alcohol-related injury. An experienced attorney helps by investigating the incident, identifying responsible parties, securing surveillance footage or witness statements, and navigating the strict deadlines and limitations in Illinois. They’ll also handle negotiations with insurance companies and represent you in court if necessary. With professional legal guidance, you’re far more likely to recover the full compensation you need for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages caused by someone else’s intoxication.
Call 309-807-3600. to start your dram shop case today.
We Serve Clients Throughout McLean County and Central Illinois
Our Bloomington, IL-based office serves individuals throughout the surrounding areas, including:
- Normal
- Lexington
- Heyworth
- Downs
- Chenoa
- Gridley
- Le Roy
- McLean County and beyond
You’ve been hurt. We’re ready to help. Call 309-807-3600. to start your case today.