Which of the following is a sign that a patron may be over-intoxicated?

A patron who is overly loud and excessively jovial is often exhibiting behaviors associated with over-intoxication. Alcohol can lower inhibitions, leading individuals to become more boisterous and animated than they may be when sober. This change in demeanor is a clear indicator that someone may be consuming alcohol beyond their tolerance level.

In a social setting, while some exuberance may be normal, extreme loudness or over-the-top joviality, particularly if it is disruptive or attention-seeking, suggests that the patron may not be in full control of their faculties. Recognizing these signs is crucial for responsible alcohol service, as it allows sellers and servers to take appropriate action to ensure the safety of the patron and others around them.

Other behaviors, such as sitting quietly and reading the menu or being calm and polite, do not typically signal intoxication; they might indicate a sober and composed state. Similarly, ordering multiple drinks without issues doesn't necessarily mean a patron is not intoxicated; it could also reflect their tolerance, but it is not an outright sign of over-intoxication like loudness would be. Thus, recognizing the signs of over-intoxication is vital in responsible service.