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The CALA Watchdog
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For Immediate Release – DECEMBER 19, 2002 Contact: THE SEASON IS NO REASON TO SUE As the year comes to a close, San Diego County Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse (CALA) is warning employers that while the holidays and annual office party are a time for celebration, even the holidays aren’t safe from lawsuits. Employers need to take steps to prevent alcohol related accidents and lawsuits that could follow. "Unfortunately, lawsuits still abound in the midst of peace and joy," said Andy Kotner, President of San Diego CALA. "In fact, they are encouraged by personal injury lawyers hoping to stuff their own stockings with large sums of money made from filing lawsuits against employers on behalf of guests involved in accidents." CALA says lawsuits against party hosts by guests who leave after consuming alcohol – and end up having an accident – are rare, but certainly a legitimate concern in our present legal system. Winning the suit or having it thrown out will still require a substantial investment of time, money and grief. And it could give employers a reason not to host another office party. The tragic reality is, according to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), 17,448 people were estimated to be killed in the United States last year due to alcohol related accidents. California alone had an estimated 1,569 fatalities resulting from drunk driving – second only to Texas. With this in mind, CALA is urging employers and all party planners to be aware of how to help protect the safety of their guests, and help protect themselves from being the target of a lawsuit. To ensure this, CALA urges party hosts to follow MADD recommendations: Arrange for discounted or complimentary rooms when a party is held at a hotel so employees won't drive home impaired. Hire a shuttle or limousine service to provide transportation for those that have been drinking. Promote the designated driver concept and these alternate forms of transportation in party invitations. Do not push drinks. If you provide an open bar, be sure the bartender has had server training to prevent over-serving or serving guests under the legal drinking age. Hold a contest for employees to create non-alcoholic drink recipes. Serve the winner's drinks at the party. Schedule activities or entertainment to keep the focus away from drinking. "It is extremely important that people be personally responsible for helping their guests get home safely, whether it be a friendly get together or an office party," said Kotner. "Following these tips will help keep holiday parties safe, may help prevent an accident, and will help keep everyone safe from lawsuits." CALA is a nonprofit, grassroots, public education organization dedicated to serving as a watchdog over the legal system and those who would seek to abuse it for undeserved gain. More than 8,200 citizens and taxpayers are San Diego County CALA supporters. This page was
last updated on 04/19/05
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