What is the primary obligation of a server when a patron shows signs of intoxication?

• A. Stop serving alcohol, ensure safety, and offer alternatives or arrange safe transport
• B. Continue serving with water only
• C. Provide no further comment and allow
• D. Ask the patron to sign a waiver

Answer: (A)

When someone appears intoxicated, the server’s main duty is to prevent further harm by stopping alcohol service and taking steps to keep the patron safe. This means immediately ceasing to pour or serve more alcohol, staying with the patron to monitor their condition, and offering safer alternatives such as non-alcoholic drinks or food. It also involves arranging safe transportation home—like a taxi, rideshare, or a ride with a trusted friend—or helping them get to a safe place where they can rest. The goal is to reduce the risk of impaired decision-making and driving, and to uphold the establishment’s responsibility to keep patrons and others safe.

Continuing to serve, even with water only, still allows intoxication to progress and does not address the core risk. Providing no comment or skipping action leaves the situation unmitigated, and asking for a waiver does not transfer responsibility away from the server or the venue.