

I know this is an area of much debate, So I'll throw in my unpopular $.02.
I am of the opinion (and teach my students) that a bartender is absolutely
responsible for the drunkeness of their customer IN MOST CASES.
When is a bartender not responsible:
1. In very large clubs where the bartender never sees the customer.
2. When a customer leaves the club and continues to consume either in their
car or somewhere else.
3. When a customer combines liquor and drugs.
4. When a bartender cuts off the customer and allows them to stay, but insists
a cab be called - then the customer sneeks out because they don't want to
leave their car in the lot.
Otherwise, every professional bartender knows the effects of alcohol and knows
that the first symptom of drinking is a loss of common sense. AKA, the
customer soon doesn't know or care how many drinks they have had. Since, in
many cases, the bartender and other staff are the only sober people in the
bar, it is their responsibility to look out for the customer. This includes,
but is not limited to, controlling the service of alcohol, stopping problems
before they occur, keeping jerks from spiking girls drinks and making sure
each and every customer is able to get home safely. Don't like it - then get
out of the SERVICE industry.
I know many bartenders that would do anything to get rid of any and all
responsibility they have. All they want is their tips and girls phone numbers.
Sorry guys/gals, it doesn't work that way. I could not live with myself if I
knew that someone I served (that was obviously intoxicated)left and was either
killed or killed someone else (especially if that someone else was my wife
coming to visit me).
Besides, you should adopt this policy if for no other reason than it is the
law in most states in the US. Regardless of whether or not they are a Dram
shop state.
There are too many bartenders that have seen too many movies where a couple of
drunks try and prove themselves by drinking someone else under the table.
Remember, that what you are intrusted to serve responsibly is a DRUG, the most
addictive drug known. The only other people that can legally distribute drugs
in this manner are doctors or pharmacists. When you fail to keep this in mind,
you fail your customer.
Current thread (22 messages):
|
Home · Drink Recipes · Bookstore · Barstore · Handbook · Web Index · Feedback
Copyright © The Webtender.
About | Disclaimer | Privacy policy