Dallas Dram Shop Lawsuit Filed After Fatal Wrong Way Crash on Dallas North Tollway

A North Texas family has filed a lawsuit following a wrong way crash on the Dallas North Tollway that took the life of 28 year old Tra’Nia Jackson.

Aldous Law filed this dram shop case on behalf of her family, seeking accountability not only from the driver charged in the crash, but also from the establishment that served him alcohol before he got behind the wheel.

Details of the Dallas North Tollway Wrong Way Crash

In the early morning hours of May 12, 2025, a driver traveled north in the southbound lanes of the Dallas North Tollway near Royal Lane. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, his vehicle clipped an 18 wheeler and then collided head on with the car carrying Tra’Nia Jackson, her two sisters, and two friends.

The crash led to a fire. A trooper and bystanders pulled Jackson from the wreckage.

Tra’Nia Jackson died as a result of her injuries.

Police later arrested the driver and charged him with intoxication manslaughter and assault.

“Mr. Majewski was driving the wrong way down the toll road. He was obviously intoxicated, and he should never have been allowed to get into that condition at a bar knowing he was going to get in a car and attempt to drive home,” said attorney Charla Aldous to NBC 5.

Lawsuit Against Dallas Bar Under Texas Dram Shop Law

The lawsuit names Harwood Arms, the Dallas bar the driver told troopers he left shortly before the crash.

Under Texas dram shop laws, a bar or restaurant can be held liable if it serves alcohol to someone who is obviously intoxicated and that person later causes injury or death. These cases focus on whether an establishment continued serving alcohol when it was clear the person posed a danger to themselves and others. 

Dram shop cases are about responsibility. Bars and restaurants that profit from alcohol sales must also follow the law designed to protect the public.

“It is our goal to try to show establishments that are selling alcohol that they need to do so responsibly and safely,” Aldous said.

Aldous Law Represents Families in Texas Dram Shop Cases

Aldous Law represents individuals and families across Texas in serious injury and wrongful death cases. We have handled complex dram shop litigation, including a 2018 trial on behalf of the mother of former Cowboys player Jerry Brown, who was killed in a drunk driving crash.

More important than any result is the reason behind the work. Aldous Law takes cases we believe in. We represent people who need experienced trial lawyers willing to stand up to powerful defendants.

Seeking Accountability After a Fatal Drunk Driving Crash in Dallas

Tra’Nia Jackson’s family describes her as having a beautiful spirit. That’s why holding all of the responsible parties accountable is so important. This lawsuit hopes to prevent similar tragedies in the future. No one deserves to lose their life due to someone else’s reckless and negligent behaviors. At Aldous Law, we believe that Tra’Nia Jackson’s family deserves justice for their tragic loss. 

How Burn Injuries From Car Crashes Can Lead to Long-Term Medical Costs and Legal Claims

Severe burns from car accidents can change everything in a matter of seconds. For many Texans, these injuries are more than just a painful recovery. They bring unexpected surgeries, long-term care, and questions about who can be held responsible for the life-altering costs that follow. If someone’s recklessness or a defective part caused your injuries, you have legal options to pursue the compensation you need for the challenging road ahead.

If you or a loved one has suffered a burn injury in a car accident, contact Aldous Law today for a free consultation. Our experienced burn injury attorneys will help you understand your legal options, assess the true value of your case, and guide you through the next steps.

Understanding Burn Injuries From Car Crashes

When cars collide, a fire or explosion can break out in moments, putting everyone inside at risk. Hot engines, leaking fuel, faulty wiring, batteries, or even airbag chemicals all pose a significant danger. In high-speed wrecks, trapped passengers may suffer burns to the skin, face, and airways in addition to other catastrophic injuries.

Common Causes of Burn Injuries in Car Accidents

Types of Burn Injuries and Severity Levels

Beyond thermal burns, car accident victims may suffer chemical burns from battery acid, hazardous cargo, or leaking fluids, or electrical burns from exposed wiring or malfunctioning battery systems. These injuries often penetrate deep into tissue, causing unseen internal damage that can worsen rapidly if not treated. 

How Burn Injuries From Car Accidents Affect Quality of Life

The long-term effects of burn injuries often go well beyond the visible scars. Survivors may face lasting disfigurement, lost mobility, and chronic pain that upend their routines. Many find daily activities challenging, experience changes in self-esteem and social relationships, or struggle with trauma, anxiety, and even PTSD.

The Long-Term Medical Costs of Burn Injuries

For many, the financial burden doesn’t end after leaving the hospital. It continues with every surgery, therapy session, and counseling appointment needed for your recovery. At Aldous Law, we fight to ensure that you are not left to shoulder these overwhelming costs alone, working to secure full compensation for your injuries.

Emergency Care, Surgeries, and Skin Grafts

Initial hospital stays, emergency surgeries, and repeated skin grafts are common, especially for third-degree or deep chemical burns. Some victims face months of treatment just to stabilize their health, followed by years of reconstructive care.

Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy, and Scar Treatment

Burn recovery often includes long stretches of physical therapy to rebuild strength and restore movement, as well as specialized treatment to minimize scarring and regain as much function as possible. Even when wounds heal, contractures (tightened skin) and pain can linger.

Emotional and Psychological Impact (PTSD, Depression, Anxiety)

The invisible impacts are just as real. Burn survivors commonly face post-traumatic stress, depression, and anxiety—especially when injuries alter their appearance or abilities. Ongoing counseling or psychiatric care is often vital for recovery.

Financial Strain on Victims and Families

Medical bills for burn injuries can quickly overwhelm even the most prepared families. Long-term or permanent disability may force people to leave jobs or require expensive home modifications and full-time assistance, compounding the stress.

Legal Options for Burn Injury Victims After Car Accidents

If you’ve suffered burn injuries in a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you have the right to file a legal claim to seek compensation for your damages. 

Filing a Legal Claim for Burn Injuries From Car Crashes

  1. Seeking Medical Treatment: Prioritize your health and ensure your injuries are documented by medical professionals, which is essential for your claim.
  2. Documenting Your Injuries and the Accident: Photograph your burns at various stages of healing, keep medical bills and records, and gather any evidence related to the crash, such as police reports or witness statements.
  3. Consulting an Experienced Attorney: A skilled burn injury lawyer will investigate your case, identify liable parties, and guide you through filing the claim.
  4. Filing the Claim: Your attorney will prepare and submit legal documents, formally initiating your case and negotiating with insurers on your behalf.
  5. Negotiation or Litigation: Many claims are settled through negotiation. If a fair settlement isn’t reached, your attorney may proceed to file a lawsuit and take your case to court.

It’s important to remember Texas personal injury claims must typically be filed within two years of the date of the accident.

Types of Compensation Available

Depending on the circumstances of the crash and the severity of your injuries, you may be entitled to seek compensation for:

Factors That May Affect Settlement Amounts

The value of a burn injury claim is unique to each case and depends on several key factors. While it's impossible to guarantee a specific amount, a settlement is primarily influenced by:

Working with an experienced car accident attorney ensures that all of your damages, both economic and non-economic, are fully documented and presented, giving you the best opportunity to receive the full and fair compensation you deserve.

Why Timely Legal Action Matters

Seeking legal action as soon as possible also helps establish a strong link between your injuries and the crash, which is important when seeking compensation and holding the responsible parties accountable. The earlier you involve our experienced burn injury lawyer, the sooner we can begin protecting your interests and guiding you through the process.

Texas Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Claims

In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of the car accident to file a personal injury claim related to burn injuries. Missing this deadline usually means losing your right to pursue compensation entirely. This time limit applies whether you were the driver, passenger, pedestrian, or bicyclist involved in the crash.

There are rare exceptions to the two-year limit, such as if the injured person is a minor (the clock then starts at age 18), if the responsible party hides information, or if a government vehicle is involved, which requires a shorter claim notice.

How Aldous Law Supports Burn Injury Victims

At Aldous Law, we fight for car accident burn injury victims every step of the way. From investigating the crash and gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies, we handle all parts of your case so you don’t have to.

We focus on securing full compensation for your injuries and ongoing needs, including medical bills, therapy, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We guide you through the legal process, answering your questions and helping you make informed decisions.

Aldous Law is here to help you get the financial support needed for medical care and recovery, so you can focus on rebuilding your life after a serious burn injury.

When to Contact a Burn Injury Lawyer After a Car Accident

If you have suffered burn injuries in a car accident, it is important to contact a burn injury attorney as soon as you can. Reaching out to Aldous Law early can:

Having an experienced attorney by your side helps you understand your rights and gives you the best opportunity to secure the financial support you need for your recovery.

Protecting Your Future After a Burn Injury From a Car Crash

A burn injury from a car crash can change your life, but it doesn't have to ruin your future. As a victim, you have the right to seek full compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain, suffering, and long-term care. With an experienced attorney guiding you, you can ensure every part of your claim is handled correctly, allowing you to focus on your physical and financial recovery.

Contact Aldous Law for Help With Burn Injury Claims

If you or a loved one has suffered a burn injury in a car accident, don't wait to get the legal help you need. Our burn injury attorneys at Aldous Law are ready to fight for you. We will handle every aspect of your case from investigating the crash and gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies so you can focus on healing.

Don't let a traumatic accident define your future. Contact Aldous Law at (214) 526-5595 today for a free, no-obligation consultation to learn your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.

How to Obtain a Crash Report After an Injury Accident in Texas

After a car accident in Texas, one of the most important pieces of evidence you’ll need is the crash report. This document, often referred to as a Texas Peace Officer’s Crash Report (Form CR-3), contains important details about how the accident occurred, who was involved, and what the responding officer observed at the scene. It can play a key role in proving fault, supporting your insurance claim, and building a strong legal case, especially if you or a loved one suffered serious injuries.

Obtaining your crash report isn’t always as straightforward as it should be. Delays, incomplete records, or misfiled information can all stand in the way of getting the clarity and answers you deserve. At Aldous Law, we know how important this document is to your case, and we don’t let red tape get in the way. 

Why a Crash Report Matters After a Texas Accident

A crash report is one of the most valuable documents you can have after a serious accident in Texas. It provides an objective, third-party account from the responding officer, detailing key facts that can influence your insurance claim or personal injury case. This report can help establish who was at fault, whether any traffic laws were violated, and what conditions may have contributed to the crash. Without it, holding the responsible party accountable becomes far more difficult.

What’s in a Peace Officer’s Crash Report (CR-3)?

A Texas Peace Officer’s Crash Report typically includes:

Trying to get your hands on this report isn’t always simple. You’ll first need to figure out which agency responded, when the report was filed, and whether it’s available through the Texas Department of Transportation or a local law enforcement office. 

Where to Get a Copy of Your Crash Report in Texas

After a car accident, many people’s first instinct is to search for answers: What should I do next? Who do I call? One of the crucial steps is obtaining a copy of your crash report, but if you try to get it on your own, you quickly realize it’s not as simple as just requesting it online. You’ll need to track down which agency responded to the accident, when the report was filed, and how to request it officially. This process can vary depending on where your accident occurred and which authorities were involved, making it easy to feel lost without guidance.

Texas DPS vs. Local Police: Who Handles Your Report?

In Texas, whether the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) or a local police department handled your crash report can significantly affect how you obtain it. The Texas DPS typically handles reports for accidents that occur on highways and major roads, while local police or sheriff’s offices cover city streets and smaller jurisdictions. Each agency has its own procedures and timelines for releasing reports, and some may charge fees or require specific forms. Understanding which authority is responsible helps streamline your request and ensures you receive the correct documentation without unnecessary delays.

Online vs. In-Person: How to Request Your Report

Once you know which agency is responsible for your crash report, the next step is figuring out the best way to request it. Many agencies now offer online portals for convenience, but sometimes an in-person visit or a formal written request is required, especially for reports that are older or more complex. 

Steps to request your crash report include:

How to Use Your Report in an Insurance Claim

Having an official crash report is essential when filing your insurance claim, as it provides documented evidence of the accident’s circumstances and fault. This can strengthen your case, helping you secure fair compensation for medical bills, repairs, and other damages. Make sure to keep a copy handy and share it promptly with your insurer and legal counsel to maximize your claim’s success.

How Long Does It Take to Receive a Texas Accident Report?

Obtaining a Texas accident report on your own can be a time-consuming process, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the various agencies involved or the proper procedures to follow. Depending on whether the report was filed by the Texas Department of Public Safety or a local police department, processing times can vary from a few days to several weeks. This delay can directly impact your ability to file insurance claims promptly and may postpone the compensation you need to cover medical bills, vehicle repairs, and other expenses. 

What If the Report Contains Errors?

If the crash report contains errors or omissions, your legal team will work diligently to challenge those inaccuracies. We know how critical it is that your report accurately reflects the facts of the accident, so we collaborate with law enforcement or request amendments when necessary. This careful attention to detail ensures your case is based on a reliable record, giving you the best chance at fair and full compensation.

How Aldous Law Uses Crash Reports to Build Strong Cases

At Aldous Law, we recognize that a crash report is more than just a form; as a detailed account that captures the full scope of the accident, it serves as a critical foundation for building a strong legal case. This report documents everything from the conditions at the scene to the statements of those involved, providing clear evidence to support your claim and maximize your compensation. By thoroughly analyzing the crash report, our legal team can identify key facts that strengthen your position and hold responsible parties accountable.

When it comes to your crash report, Aldous Law can:

Get Help from a Trusted Texas Car & Truck Accident Lawyer

At Aldous Law, we stand firmly alongside our clients and their families in the aftermath of a car accident, providing the guidance and support needed to navigate the complexities of insurance claims and legal processes. We understand that every piece of evidence matters, especially your crash report, and we work tirelessly to secure and review all documentation that can strengthen your case. If you or a loved one is struggling to obtain your crash report or feels uncertain about how to move forward with your claim, contact Aldous Law today.

5 Facts About Post-Traumatic Stress After a Motor Vehicle Accident

Any time a crash occurs, it can be a challenging experience. The fact is, we never expect an accident to happen. Unfortunately, they do happen quite often, sometimes much more often than we would like to admit. There are many potential causes of a car collision, including negligence, distracted driving, mechanical failure, and more. When a collision happens, not only can it cause serious injuries, but it can also result in the victim suffering from post-traumatic stress.

This can affect the victim’s ability to drive—or even be a passenger—for a long time. It is essential to understand some of the important facts about post-traumatic stress following a car crash.

How Often Does PTSD Occur

Research has examined how many individuals seek treatment after a serious motor vehicle crash. A majority of those injured did not end up developing a serious mental condition that would require treatment. However, a general population study has discovered that 9% of surviving victims of car accidents suffer from PTSD.

Studies also show that of the individuals who have survived a serious car crash and develop PTSD, as high as 53% have some mood disorder as well, such as depression, and 15% of car crash survivors have some kind of phobia towards driving.

Car Collisions Were the Leading Cause of PTSD

A book in 2003 titled After the Crash: Psychological Assessment and Treatment of Survivors of Motor Vehicle Accidents determined that car crashes were the leading cause of post-traumatic stress disorder at the time. The study in the second edition of the book analyzed 161 survivors of serious motor crashes who had sought medical attention within 48 hours of the collision. Of the 161 participants, 98 had participated in a therapy protocol.

PTSD Risks

After a serious auto collision, the risk of post-traumatic stress is very concerning and can cause several issues after the crash. For instance, long-term mental health problems can be caused by pre-existing trauma matters from before the crash. If there was someone else in the vehicle who was seriously injured or lost their life, this could be a significant cause of PTSD in the surviving victim, resulting in long-term fear of traveling in a vehicle. There are some factors post-accident that can prevent the development of PTSD, but it is a bit difficult, as the survivor may be affected right away.

Treatments for PTSD

Obviously, the very first action that should be taken to treat post-traumatic stress is to seek therapy as soon as possible. Some studies have shown that individuals who do not seek treatment quickly often deal with the symptoms for months, even years. It is important to act rapidly. Also, physical recovery and support from family and friends can be helpful options. This means working to maintain the same lifestyle that the victim had before the accident. This can help them cope with what happened and give them a more positive outcome regarding their mental health.

What May Happen After the Accident

Some things may signify that a surviving victim has PTSD. This includes moments of memorizing and re-experiencing the crash. They may often have nightmares or difficult flashbacks, causing anxiety and distress. They may try to avoid remembering the collision altogether, such as by staying away from the crash site or the car they were in. They may also have physical pain, depression, or guilt if they feel the crash was their fault. The guilt or depression symptoms are especially true if there was another person in the vehicle who was severely hurt or lost their life. It is devastating any time a victim develops post-traumatic stress after a car crash. When someone else’s negligence or recklessness causes a collision, it can be a complicated situation to deal with.

At Aldous Law, our Dallas car crash attorneys have made it a point to represent individuals who have sustained injuries in collisions with negligent parties. If you or someone you love has been harmed, call our firm and discuss your options with a skilled attorney who can help you get through the matter. We aim to provide you with the representation you need throughout the entire process from start to finish.

Common Causes of Catastrophic Injuries and Who Can Be Held Liable in Dallas

Catastrophic injuries are life-altering events that can rob individuals of their health, independence, and future. These injuries often occur due to someone else’s negligence or failure to uphold safety standards. For victims in Dallas, understanding the root causes of these injuries and identifying who may be legally responsible is the first step toward seeking justice and compensation.

Who Can Be Held Liable Under Texas Law?

Liability for a catastrophic injury varies depending on the circumstances. Whether caused by a reckless individual, malfunctioning product, or unsafe conditions, Texas law holds responsible parties accountable for their negligence. Some examples of who may be legally liable for these types of injuries:

Individuals vs. Businesses

Liability may fall on an individual or a business, depending on the situation. For instance, in a car accident, the negligent driver is usually liable. However, if the driver is working for a company at the time of the crash, the employer may also be held responsible.

Businesses are often held to higher standards because they have more resources to implement safety measures. For instance, a property owner is expected to ensure their premises are free from hazards, while manufacturers must rigorously test their products before releasing them to the market.

Shared Fault and Texas’s 51% Bar Rule

Texas follows a modified comparative fault system, also known as the 51% Bar Rule. This means an injured person can recover damages as long as they are not more than 50% at fault for the incident. If you’re found to be partially responsible, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re found 25% at fault, your total award will be reduced by 25%.

Understanding the nuances of liability is essential, as shared fault can dramatically impact your ability to recover compensation. This is why discussing your case with a dedicated personal injury lawyer is crucial.

7 Most Common Causes of Catastrophic Injuries in Dallas

Catastrophic injuries often stem from preventable incidents. Here are the most common causes and how liability typically applies to each:

1. Truck Accidents

Due to their size and weight, truck accidents often lead to devastating injuries. Causes include driver fatigue, overloaded cargo, speeding, or poorly maintained vehicles. Liability could fall on the truck driver, trucking company, or maintenance provider.

2. Oil and Gas Explosions

Texas’s energy industry carries inherent risks. Workers can suffer severe burns, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), and fatalities due to explosions caused by equipment failures, insufficient training, or safety violations. Employers, contractors, or equipment manufacturers are often held liable.

3. Medical Malpractice

Errors in healthcare can have catastrophic consequences, including paralysis, brain damage, or birth injuries. Common mistakes include surgical errors, anesthesia complications, or medication mistakes. Liability often includes doctors, nurses, hospitals, or other healthcare providers.

For instance, if a surgical instrument is left inside a patient, the surgeon and hospital may share accountability due to negligence.

4. Construction Site Injuries

Construction workers face high risks, with injuries ranging from falls to machinery accidents. Common causes include unprotected heights, defective equipment, or poor supervision on-site. Liable parties may include property owners, contractors, or equipment suppliers.

5. Defective Products

From medical devices to car parts, defective products can result in catastrophic harm. For example, a malfunctioning airbag may fail to deploy correctly during a car crash, causing severe injuries. Under Texas product liability laws, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers can all be held responsible for unsafe products.

6. Rideshare & Car Accidents

High-speed collisions are a leading cause of TBIs, spinal cord injuries, and amputations. When a rideshare driver for services like Uber or Lyft is involved, determining liability can get complicated. Both the driver and the rideshare company may share responsibility, depending on the circumstances.

7. Violent Assaults on Unsafe Properties

Assaults, shootings, and other violent crimes often occur in places that lack proper security, like parking lots, apartment complexes, or nightclubs. These incidents result in injuries such as gunshot wounds, broken bones, and emotional trauma. Property owners, landlords, or event organizers who fail to address known security risks can be held liable.

At Aldous Law, our personal injury lawyers are prepared to fight for your rights. You deserve compensation for your injuries, and we’re here to make sure that happens.

Why Legal Representation in Dallas Matters

After experiencing a catastrophic injury, victims often face overwhelming medical costs, permanent disabilities, and emotional suffering. Navigating the legal system on top of these challenges can feel impossible without professional help.

Here’s why hiring a catastrophic injury lawyer matters:

At Aldous Law, our attorneys are well experienced in representing victims of catastrophic injuries. We’re committed to building strong cases and supporting you through every step of the legal process.

Time Limits to File a Catastrophic Injury Lawsuit in Texas

Texas has strict rules regarding how long you have to file a personal injury lawsuit. The statute of limitations for catastrophic injury claims is generally two years from the date of the incident. If you fail to file within this window, you lose the right to pursue compensation.

However, exceptions may apply. For example, if the injury involves medical malpractice, the clock might start ticking once you discover the harm, rather than the date of the procedure. Consulting with an attorney as soon as possible ensures your case is filed on time.

Take Back Your Power

If you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury in Dallas, or anywhere in Texas, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Aldous Law is here to help you pursue justice and secure the compensation you need to rebuild your life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

When it comes to protecting your rights, time is of the essence. Reach out to a trusted Dallas catastrophic injury lawyer and take the first step toward healing and justice.

Uber, Lyft Drivers Picking Up Underage Children, Despite Company Policy

*Rideshare policies and insurance rules continue to evolve. If your child was injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, updated liability laws may affect your case.

The freedom provided by a car is something most teenagers crave, and with Lyft and Uber, some don’t even need to wait for a license of their own.

Recently, some parents began noticing strange charges to their accounts after their children downloaded ridesharing apps to their smartphones.

Injured in an Uber or Lyft accident involving a minor? Speak with a Dallas rideshare accident lawyer today. Call (214) 526-5595 now for a free consultation.

In an interview with WFAA8 News, one parent in North Texas said they caught their children sneaking out late at night twice. According to her, the first driver to show up worked for Uber, and the second time, a Lyft driver picked up her children.

"I asked them then why they picked up a car full of six 14-year-olds," the mother told WFAA8 News. "It's very concerning to me that they are picking up these kids at whatever time, but especially at 2 something in the morning, that that would not alert somebody that's a grown adult. Should I be picking up these kids at 2 in the morning?"

Both companies' policies state that children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult when picked up by a driver. Still, according to one driver who worked for both Lyft and Uber over the past two years, this policy isn't clearly communicated to drivers.

"They didn't communicate to me when I signed up," the driver said. "There was nothing."

The driver said that since he learned of the rule on his own, he has denied rides to several teenagers. However, that rarely stopped the young riders from catching a ride.

"But then I'd sit and watch the next Uber driver come up and pick those kids up and take them off."

After discovering unexpected charges on her PayPal account, the mother from North Texas reached out to Lyft to ask why her children had been picked up, despite the company's policy forbidding the practice. According to her, Lyft informed her that they were not authorized to release that information.

This issue becomes even more worrying when you tie in the recent lawsuit Sarah Milburn and her attorney, Charla Aldous, filed against Uber after Milburn's driver ran a red light and was struck by another vehicle, leaving Milburn a person with quadriplegia. During the investigation into the crash, it was determined that the driver wasn't properly registered and wasn't even permitted to drive.

According to Aldous, quality control is a major issue for the company.

If an Uber or Lyft driver causes a crash while transporting a minor, liability can become complex. Learn more about your legal options on our Dallas rideshare accident lawyer page

"Uber doesn't have direct contact with the drivers," said Aldous. "They insulate themselves from the hiring process so they can say if something like Sarah's accident happens, they can say 'oh, it's not our responsibility."

Have questions about a rideshare accident in Texas? Our Dallas injury attorneys are ready to help. Contact us now for a free case review.

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