Parents of teenagers know that they are generally responsible for the actions of their children.  However, parents are increasingly being held legally responsible for the activities of their children’s friends, particularly when it comes to underage drinking.

In a case that further proves this point, a judge has found an Illinois mom liable for $2.5 million in damages resulting from a party in which underage drinking occurred.  Lauralee Pfeifer was found to be responsible for 19 year-old George Baldwin, who became intoxicated at her home after being invited there by Pfeifer’s teenage daughters.  After leaving the party, Baldwin was involved in a car accident in which he was paralyzed from the chest down.

Judge Christopher Starck ruled in favor of Baldwin, stating that Pfeifer did not take adequate action to prevent the drinking, despite opportunities to do so.  Judge Starck awarded Baldwin $2.5 million, which represents the amount of Pfeifer’s homeowner’s insurance.

If you or someone you know has been injured in an accident, please contact the Orlando personal injury lawyer Todd Miner by phone at 407-420-4040.