Bars Sued After DUI Causes Crashes

By Jordan Quinley

Published on November 28, 2007

The suits are being filed on behalf of Ryan Fell and the parents of Megan Bates against the Famous Mexican Restaurant and Ryan’s Pub respectively by attorneys Lawrence Goldberg and Dawson Muth.

According to the allegations, one Richard V. Wagner, a friend of Bates’, was drinking at Ryan’s Pub on Feb. 11. The institution continued to serve him alcohol till 1 a.m., even after he was visibly intoxicated. When leaving, employees from Ryan’s Pub helped Bates into the front passenger seat of Wagner’s car. After crashing his car into a utility pole, Wagner’s blood alcohol level was tested at about 0.15. Bates, 23, was killed in the crash. The owner of Ryan’s Pub did not comment on the allegations, saying he had not yet heard the complaint.

The Famous Mexican Restaurant is being sued on behalf of Ryan Fell, 22. According to allegations, the restaurant served Omar Villavia-Martinez after he was visibly drunk. Driving his car west on Lincoln Highway, Villavia-Martinez crossed the center line, hitting Ryan Fell’s vehicle and seriously injuring her. The Famous Mexican Restaurant has not commented on the allegations.

In Pennsylvania alcohol servers may be held financially responsible for DUI-related injuries caused by motorists who became intoxicated at their institutions.

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