When to Stop Serving Alcohol and Refuse Service

Restaurants and bars face unique risks and complexities. As an alcohol-serving establishment, your business can be especially vulnerable to legal challenges. It is crucial that your bartenders and staff know what signs to look for in an intoxicated person and when to stop serving patrons. Society Insurance has compiled some helpful tips for alcohol-serving establishments. 

Right to Refuse ServiceAt some point, bartenders will likely have to address a belligerent or highly intoxicated person. There are several legitimate reasons for bartenders to refuse service. For example, underage individuals, those who have over-consumed or are showing symptoms of intoxication, excessively rowdy or unruly customers, a person harassing staff or other customers, or if the establishment is at capacity. 

It is important that employees are educated on the conditions that a business cannot refuse service. Enforced by the Civil Rights Act of 1964, a business cannot refuse service based on: race or…