Burn Injuries from Explosions: Who is Liable in Texas?

Burn injuries from explosions can change lives in an instant, leaving survivors not only with physical scars but also with serious questions about who should be held responsible. Explosions can happen for many reasons, faulty equipment, poor maintenance, unsafe working conditions, or defective products. Those who might be liable include employers, property owners, manufacturers, or contractors. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an unexpected explosion, you may have the right to pursue compensation for lost wages, medical bills, and the emotional trauma you’ve endured.

At Aldous Law, we use our years of experience to guide clients through burn injury cases with care and attention. We dig deep to uncover what caused the explosion and identify every party that could be responsible, making sure your claim covers all possible avenues for recovery. Our Dallas injury lawyers focus on building strong, evidence-backed strategies that hold up whether your case is settled or goes to court. If you’re facing the aftermath of burn injuries from an explosion, Aldous Law is here to provide clear guidance, assertive advocacy, and dedicated support every step of the way. Contact us for a personalized consultation to discuss your options and start moving toward recovery.

Understanding Liability for Explosion-Related Burn Injuries

Burn injuries from explosions come with their own set of legal challenges, different from other types of burn cases. Unlike burns caused by fires, chemicals, or everyday accidents, explosions are sudden, violent events that often cause widespread damage along with serious personal injuries. These incidents can involve multiple factors and several parties who might be responsible. Figuring out liability means conducting a careful, detailed investigation into what caused the explosion, the environment where it happened, and whether proper safety measures were followed.

What Makes Explosion Injuries Different from Other Burn Cases

Explosions stand apart because of the sheer force and scale of destruction they bring. Victims may not only suffer severe burns but also injuries related to the blast, like fractures, amputations, or traumatic brain injuries. Unlike isolated burn incidents, explosions often:

Affect multiple victims within a wide blast area
Leave behind complex evidence that needs expert analysis
Result from a combination of causes, such as system failures, poor maintenance, or defective equipment
Involve multiple parties who may be at fault, including employers, manufacturers, contractors, or property owners

These layers of complexity make explosion-related burn cases particularly challenging, both for medical recovery and determining legal responsibility.

The Role of Negligence and Fault in Determining Liability

Negligence is often at the heart of explosion-related burn injury cases. Liability usually comes down to whether someone failed to meet their responsibility to keep others safe. Some key factors that can point to negligence include:

Failing to properly maintain or repair equipment
Not providing adequate safety protocols or training in hazardous workplaces
Using or producing defective or unsafe products
Improper storage or handling of flammable materials
Failing to warn about known dangers

Common Causes of Explosion-Related Burn Injuries

Explosions happen suddenly and without warning, releasing extreme heat, force, and fire that can cause serious burns in seconds. These incidents can occur almost anywhere, from industrial sites and workplaces to homes and public areas, making them unpredictable and dangerous. Knowing the common causes of explosion-related burn injuries helps highlight the range of situations that can lead to these life-changing events.

Workplace and Industrial Explosions

Industrial sites, like steel mills, chemical plants, and manufacturing facilities, are some of the highest-risk environments for explosions. These incidents often happen because of:

Chemical reactions or spills igniting when hazardous materials are stored, mixed, or handled improperly
Gas leaks from pipelines or equipment that go unnoticed until a spark or flame triggers an explosion
Insufficient safety training or procedures, leaving workers unprepared to handle dangerous substances or emergencies

Because of the size and scale of these operations, explosions at industrial sites can injure multiple workers at once, cause significant property damage, and even affect entire communities.

Equipment and Machinery Malfunctions

Faulty or poorly maintained equipment is another major cause of explosions. In industrial and commercial settings, when critical machinery fails, the consequences can be severe. Some common examples include:

Electrical failures that spark fires or ignite nearby flammable materials
Boilers or pressure vessels rupturing due to extreme pressure or lack of proper maintenance
Mechanical breakdowns, such as overheating or sparking in conveyor belts, furnaces, or industrial tools

When machinery is built incorrectly, repaired improperly, or neglected during routine safety checks, the resulting explosions can leave workers with devastating, life-altering burn injuries.

Residential or Public Explosions

Explosions aren’t just a workplace danger—they can happen at home, in apartments, or in public spaces too. These incidents are especially dangerous because people often have no warning and little protection. Some common causes include:

Gas line or propane tank leaks in homes that ignite suddenly
Faulty consumer products, like defective appliances, batteries, or heating equipment
Failures in public infrastructure, including ruptured utility lines, construction accidents, or vehicle crashes that lead to fuel explosions

Explosions in these settings can seriously injure residents, bystanders, and entire neighborhoods. They also raise tough questions about product safety, property maintenance, and whether proper oversight was in place.

Who May Be Liable for Explosion-Related Burn Injuries

Figuring out liability for explosion-related burn injuries usually requires a careful, detailed investigation. Explosions often happen because of a mix of factors, and identifying who’s at fault means looking closely at everything leading up to the event. This process can uncover responsible parties that aren’t immediately obvious, even large companies or government entities responsible for safety regulations. Working with an experienced premises liability attorney gives you the guidance and resources you need to take on powerful organizations and fight for the compensation you deserve, no matter how complicated the case.

Those who may be held liable for explosion-related burn injuries include:

Utility companies or government agencies in charge of infrastructure safety
Employers and business owners who don’t maintain safe work environments
Manufacturers and product designers of defective or unsafe equipment or products
Contractors and maintenance providers who ignore safety standards
Property owners or landlords who overlook hazardous conditions or fail to warn

An experienced attorney can help you understand who might be responsible and guide you through the best legal options for your specific situation. With the right legal support, you have a trusted advocate focused on protecting your rights and helping you pursue the best possible outcome.

Legal Rights and Compensation for Burn Victims

Victims of explosion-related burn injuries often face serious physical, emotional, and financial challenges. At Aldous Law, we help clients explore options for compensation when injuries are caused by someone else’s negligence, unsafe products, or hazardous work conditions. Filing a personal injury claim can provide the resources you need for medical care and financial stability, while also holding those responsible accountable and helping prevent similar accidents in the future.

Types of Damages You May Recover

Types of damages you may recover include:

Medical expenses, including hospital stays, surgeries, and rehabilitative care
Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity
Pain and suffering related to physical and emotional trauma
Property damage caused by the explosion
Costs for ongoing care or home modifications due to disability

Compensation can help cover the high costs of treatment and lost income while holding negligent parties responsible. It also provides a safety net, letting you focus on recovery while pursuing justice for the harm you’ve suffered.

How Liability Is Proven in Explosion Burn Cases

Proving liability in explosion-related burn injury cases takes a careful investigation and solid evidence showing that someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing caused the incident. This can include:

Accident reports and workplace records detailing what happened
Expert testimony from engineers, fire investigators, or product specialists who can analyze the cause of the explosion
Maintenance logs and safety inspections showing whether equipment, facilities, or products were properly checked and maintained
Witness statements from coworkers, residents, or bystanders who saw what happened
Product testing or analysis if defective equipment or consumer goods are involved

By putting this evidence together, attorneys can determine who’s responsible, whether it’s an employer, manufacturer, contractor, property owner, or another party. Establishing liability not only strengthens a personal injury claim but also helps encourage better safety practices to protect others.

Steps to Take After Suffering an Explosion-Related Burn Injury

If you or a loved one is hurt in an explosion, taking the right steps early can protect your health and your legal rights. Important steps include:

Get medical care right away: Burns and blast injuries can get worse quickly, so it’s important to get medical care right away.
Report the incident: Let your employer (for workplace accidents) or the proper authorities know what happened so there’s an official record.
Document your injuries and damages: Take photos of your burns, any damaged property, and the accident scene if you can. Keep copies of all medical records and bills.
Keep evidence: Don’t throw away clothing, equipment, or other items involved in the explosion, they could help prove liability.
Follow your doctor’s advice: Go to all appointments, treatments, and rehab sessions to support your recovery and your claim.
Talk to an experienced attorney: A lawyer who handles explosion and burn injury cases can investigate what happened, figure out who’s responsible, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Taking these steps not only supports your recovery but also strengthens your case, making it easier to hold negligent parties accountable and get the resources you need moving forward.

How an Attorney Can Help with Explosion-Related Burn Injury Claims

Recovering from burn injuries after an explosion can feel overwhelming with medical care, insurance issues, and uncertainty about the future. An attorney acts as a trusted guide, helping you gather evidence, talk with insurance companies, and hold those responsible accountable. From your first consultation to settlement talks or trial, a lawyer can make sure your rights are protected so you can focus on healing.

An attorney can help by:

Investigating to identify all responsible parties
Collecting and preserving evidence and expert testimony
Handling complex legal and procedural steps
Communicating with insurance companies and opposing counsel
Explaining the full range of damages you could recover
Fighting to get you the maximum compensation possible

With Aldous Law on your side, our attorneys aim to reduce stress and uncertainty so you can focus on recovery. We work to secure fair compensation as efficiently as possible, helping cover medical costs, lost income, and other expenses related to your injuries.

Aldous Law’s Experience with Explosion-Related Burn Injury Cases

Aldous Law has a strong track record of winning multi-million-dollar settlements and verdicts for clients hurt in complex explosion-related burn cases. With over 200 jury trials and more than $1 billion recovered for victims of serious injuries, our team knows how to take on big corporations, insurance companies, and negligent parties to fight for the compensation clients and their families deserve.

When you work with Aldous Law, you get experienced legal allies who are committed to helping you rebuild your life and pursue justice.

Contact Aldous Law for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured in an explosion, Aldous Law is here to help you navigate your case with confidence. Our compassionate team will work closely with you to protect your rights and make sure your injuries and losses are fully addressed. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward getting the support and compensation you deserve.

How to Document an Oilfield Injury Accident for Claim

When an oilfield injury changes your life, it’s important to know you have real options to protect your future and your family’s well-being. The steps you take after an accident can make a big difference in how your claim turns out. Letting your employer know about the injury right away and making sure it’s officially on the record strengthens your case and helps you get the compensation you deserve. Having an experienced personal injury team on your side can make the whole process a lot less stressful.

At Aldous Law, we guide you through every step of building your claim. We understand the oilfield industry and the challenges that come with an injury on the job. Our goal is to protect your rights, fight for your best interests, and make sure no detail is overlooked. Together, we’ll make sure your voice is heard and give you the strongest foundation to pursue the compensation you need to rebuild your life. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Immediate Actions After an Oilfield Accident

After an oilfield accident, taking the right steps can make a big difference in how your claim unfolds and ensures that your safety and interests are prioritized.

Some of the key actions to take include:

Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize removing yourself and others from danger and seek medical care immediately, even if injuries appear minor.
Notify Supervisors and Authorities: Report the accident promptly to your supervisor or employer to establish an official record.
Preserve the Accident Scene: If possible, avoid disturbing the area to maintain evidence for investigations and your claim.
Document Initial Details: Record important information such as the time, location, environmental conditions, and any hazards you observed.

Hiring an experienced industrial accident attorney can help guide you through the rest of the process.

Documenting the Incident

Taking the time to document the scene after an oilfield accident is one of the best ways to protect your rights and strengthen your claim. The details you capture early on can make a big difference in your case, from showing who was at fault to proving how serious your injuries are.

To create a strong record of the incident, consider gathering the following types of documents:

Collect witness statements from anyone who saw what happened
Take photos and videos of the accident scene, any hazardous conditions, and your injuries
Gather company records and safety logs relevant to the incident
Keep medical records and detailed treatment notes from all healthcare providers
Maintain a personal accident journal to track your symptoms, pain levels, and day-to-day challenges

Keeping these documents organized can feel overwhelming, but an experienced personal injury attorney can guide you every step of the way.

Legal and Compensation Overview

In Texas, there are deadlines for filing claims after an injury. Workers’ compensation claims generally need to be filed within 30 days of the injury, while personal injury or wrongful death claims usually must be filed within two years. Missing these deadlines can prevent you from getting compensation, so taking action promptly is important to protect your legal rights.

Understanding Workers’ Compensation Rights

Knowing your workers’ compensation rights is key after an oilfield injury. In Texas, workers’ compensation can cover medical expenses, rehab costs, lost wages during recovery, and benefits for temporary or permanent disabilities. While employers aren’t always required to offer workers’ compensation, many in the oil and gas industry do to protect their workforce and follow regulations. These benefits can help ease the financial burden so you can focus on getting better.

Filing an Injury or Wrongful Death Claim

Filing a personal injury or wrongful death claim can be an important step toward getting fair compensation. If a third party — like a contractor or equipment manufacturer — was negligent and caused the injury, you may be able to pursue additional damages. This can include compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and lost future earning capacity. With Aldous Law on your side, your case gets dedicated attention to help protect your future.

When to Contact a Qualified Attorney

If you or a loved one is hurt in an oilfield accident, Aldous Law is here to help. Our oilfield injury lawyers understand the unique challenges oilfield workers face and the stakes involved when injuries disrupt their livelihood and their families’ security. We are committed to providing strong, compassionate legal guidance tailored to your specific situation.

With Aldous Law advocating for you, you have a trusted ally working to secure fair compensation and protect your future. Contact Aldous Law today for a free consultation to discuss how we can support you through this difficult time.

Wrongful Death vs. Accidental Death: What’s the Legal Difference in Texas?

When a loved one dies unexpectedly, the pain and confusion can feel unrelenting. For families in Texas, one of the first steps toward seeking justice is understanding whether the loss is considered a wrongful death or an accidental death under the law. While the terms sound similar, they mean very different things legally, and those differences can affect your ability to file a claim or seek compensation.

Wrongful death typically involves negligence or intentional harm, while accidental death refers to a loss that was truly unforeseeable and not caused by someone’s wrongful actions. Knowing the difference helps families choose the right legal path to pursue accountability.

At Aldous Law, we’re here to help you find answers. Our attorneys will guide you through the process with care, clarity, and a commitment to doing what’s right. Contact us for a free consultation - we're ready to stand with you and your family.

Understanding Wrongful Death: A Legal Overview

In Texas, wrongful death is defined as a death caused by the wrongful act, neglect, carelessness, unskillfulness, or default of another person or entity. For families dealing with loss, the law offers a way to hold the responsible party accountable and seek compensation for what they've been through. But the effects of wrongful death go far beyond the legal side, families are often left facing sudden grief, financial strain, and a lot of unanswered questions.

Examples of wrongful death cases include:

Fatal car and truck accidents involving negligent drivers
Medical malpractice resulting in loss of life
Workplace accidents caused by unsafe conditions
Defective or dangerous products leading to fatal injuries
Drunk or distracted driving incidents
Fatalities resulting from nursing home neglect or abuse

Filing a wrongful death claim can be complicated and emotionally overwhelming. The process involves strict deadlines and legal steps that can be hard to manage while you're grieving. That’s why having the right legal support matters — it lets you focus on your family while experienced attorneys take care of the legal work and fight for the justice you deserve.

Understanding Accidental Death: A Legal Overview

Accidental death in Texas refers to an individual passing away from an unforeseen and unintentional event with no underlying negligence or wrongdoing. Legally, accidental deaths are those where nobody is found to be at fault, meaning no person or entity acted carelessly or failed in a duty that contributed to the loss. While every accidental death is tragic, not every situation gives rise to a legal claim.

Accidental Deaths That Don’t Qualify for Lawsuits

Examples of accidental deaths that generally don’t qualify for lawsuits include:

Unavoidable natural disasters, such as floods or tornadoes
Accidents caused solely by a person’s own actions, without negligence by another
Fatal events from unforeseeable medical conditions, with no error by medical professionals
Incidents where proper care was taken and no legal duty was breached

These legal definitions can make the process of seeking compensation complicated and, at times, feel frustrating for families in grief.

Key Differences Between Wrongful and Accidental Death

Knowing the difference between wrongful death and accidental death is important for families thinking about a legal claim in Texas. These terms have specific legal meanings that affect who can file, when a claim can be made, and what kind of compensation might be available.

Key differences include:

Cause of Death: Wrongful death involves another party's negligence or misconduct; accidental death does not.
Legal Responsibility: Wrongful death allows for legal action against a liable party; accidental death often does not.
Eligibility for Compensation: Families may pursue compensation for wrongful death, but not for most purely accidental deaths.
Burden of Proof: Wrongful death cases require showing fault or failure in duty of care; accidental deaths generally lack this element.
Types of Losses Covered: Wrongful death lawsuits can seek damages for both economic and non-economic losses; accidental deaths without liability do not allow for such claims.

You may file a wrongful death claim if there is evidence that someone else's actions or lack of care directly caused the loss of your loved one. If you're unsure which category applies to your family’s situation, reaching out to an experienced attorney can clarify your options and help you take the next steps toward justice and closure.

When Can You File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

Typically, you have two years from the date of your loved one's passing to file a lawsuit. While two years might seem like a long time, building a strong case requires thorough investigation, gathering evidence, and often consulting with experienced attorneys. Under Texas law, only certain individuals are eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit:

The surviving spouse of the deceased.
The children of the deceased (both minor and adult, including legally adopted children).
The parents of the deceased (both biological and adoptive).

If none of these eligible family members file a lawsuit within three months of the date of death, the executor or administrator of the deceased's estate may file the claim on their behalf, unless the eligible family members explicitly request that no such action be taken.

There are some limited exceptions to this two-year rule, such as if the negligence was not immediately apparent, if the claimant is a minor, or if there was fraudulent concealment of the cause of death.

How to Prove Negligence in a Wrongful Death Claim

To prove negligence in a wrongful death claim, you need to show that someone had a responsibility to care for your loved one, failed to do so, and that failure caused their death. This usually means collecting evidence like accident reports, witness statements, expert opinions, and medical records to prove fault. Showing negligence is important not just to hold the responsible party accountable but also to protect your family’s right to compensation.

What Compensation Can Be Recovered?

If negligence is proven, families may be entitled to compensation for:

Medical expenses related to the fatal incident
Funeral and burial costs
Lost income and future earnings
Loss of companionship, guidance, and support
Emotional pain and suffering
Loss of inheritance or benefits

Securing compensation can ease the financial burden after a profound loss and help your family focus on healing. With a personal injury attorney by your side, you can maximize your recovery, ensuring that every aspect of your loss is considered and that justice is fully pursued on behalf of your loved one.

How Aldous Law Supports Grieving Families

At Aldous Law, helping families through their toughest times is more than a job - it’s our calling. Our attorneys handle every wrongful death case with care, fully aware of the emotional pain families are facing. We believe families deserve more than just legal advice; they need advocates who listen, respect their loved one’s story, and work hard to seek justice on their behalf.

From investigating the facts to navigating complex legal challenges, Aldous Law is dedicated to securing the answers and compensation your family needs. We fight for accountability, ensuring that your loved one’s memory is respected and your rights are protected. By shouldering the legal burden, we empower families to focus on healing and finding a sense of closure in the wake of a devastating loss. Contact Aldous Law today for compassionate representation.

FAQs About Filing a Death Claim in Texas

What is the legal definition of wrongful death in Texas?

Wrongful death in Texas occurs when a person's death is caused by the wrongful act, neglect, or default of another person or entity. It often involves elements of negligence, recklessness, or intentional harm.

What is considered an accidental death?

An accidental death is a sudden and unintentional loss of life stemming from an unforeseen event, where no individual or entity is found to be legally at fault or negligent.

Who can file a wrongful death claim in Texas?

Under Texas law, the surviving spouse, children, and parents of the deceased may file a wrongful death claim. If none of these individuals bring an action within three months, the executor or administrator of the estate may do so.

How do I file a wrongful death claim?

Begin by consulting with a wrongful death attorney who can assess your case, gather evidence, and file the necessary legal documents on your behalf. Timeliness is important due to the statute of limitations in Texas.

What role does an attorney play in these cases?

An attorney guides you through every step of the process. Investigating the circumstances, building a case, handling all paperwork, advocating in negotiations or at trial, and helping you seek the compensation and answers you need.

How long do I have to file a wrongful death claim in Texas?

Typically, you have two years from the date of your loved one’s passing to file a wrongful death claim, though there are some exceptions. A lawyer can provide specific advice based on your circumstances.

Why is it important to seek legal advice in these cases?

The legal definitions, processes, and deadlines are complex. Having an experienced attorney ensures your rights are protected and that your claim is presented as strongly as possible while you focus on your family and healing.

Is It Too Late to File a Wrongful Death Claim in Texas?

Losing a loved one is incredibly difficult, and when their death is caused by someone else’s actions or negligence, it can feel even more overwhelming. For families in Texas, filing a wrongful death claim can be a way to hold the responsible party accountable and begin to find a sense of closure.

A wrongful death claim gives surviving family members the right to seek compensation for both the emotional and financial toll of their loss. But these cases have strict time limits. In Texas, you usually have two years from the date of your loved one’s death to file a claim. If you miss this deadline, you may lose the chance to take legal action and pursue the compensation you deserve.

At Aldous Law, we know how heavy this time can feel for families. Our team is here to support you with clear guidance and a steady hand, helping you through the legal process while standing up for what you and your family are owed. If you’re not sure whether you’re eligible to file a wrongful death claim, reach out to us — we’re here to help you understand your options and move forward.

Understanding the Statute of Limitations in Texas

The statute of limitations is a crucial legal deadline that determines how long you have to file a wrongful death claim after the loss of a loved one. In Texas, this time limit is strictly enforced by the courts, and failing to file within the designated period can result in losing your right to seek justice and compensation. These statutes are in place to ensure that claims are brought while evidence is still fresh and to provide all parties with a clear sense of closure and legal certainty.

The statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in Texas typically includes:

Two years from the date of death: Most wrongful death actions must be filed within two years after your loved one’s passing.
Limited exceptions: Certain circumstances, such as delayed discovery of the cause of death or cases involving minors, may affect the deadline.
Court discretion: In rare cases, courts may allow for exceptions if specific criteria are met, but these are not guaranteed.

Given the strict nature of these deadlines, it’s essential to work with an experienced attorney who can review your situation, help you determine the precise time frame, and ensure all documents are filed on time. This support can make a critical difference in preserving your claim and protecting your family’s right to the compensation and closure you deserve

When Does the Two-Year Clock Start Ticking?

The two-year statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim in Texas typically begins on the date of your loved one’s passing. This means that the moment death occurs, the legal “clock” starts running, and families have a two-year window to take action. It’s crucial to be aware of this timeline, as missing the deadline can prevent you from seeking justice and financial recovery.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Texas?

In Texas, the following people are eligible to file a wrongful death claim:

The deceased person’s surviving spouse
Children (including adult children)
Parents of the deceased
In certain cases, an executor or administrator of the estate

Being able to file a claim ensures that responsible parties are held accountable and that your family has the opportunity to pursue the closure and compensation you deserve. Acting within the legal timeframe is key, and an attorney can help you navigate this process with confidence and care.

Exceptions That May Extend the Filing Deadline

In most cases, Texas gives families two years to file a wrongful death claim. But in certain situations, that deadline can be extended. This usually happens when the cause of death wasn’t immediately clear, the person responsible wasn’t known, or the defendant was out of state. There may also be extra time in cases involving minors.

These exceptions are limited and can be hard to apply without legal help. Courts generally require a formal process to approve them, so it’s important to speak with an attorney if you think one of these situations might apply to your case.

Common Mistakes That Jeopardize Your Case

Common mistakes that can jeopardize your case include:

Waiting too long to investigate or file a claim
Not documenting evidence or witness statements promptly
Failing to identify all liable parties
Relying on verbal promises or informal agreements
Attempting to negotiate directly with insurers without legal counsel

Because these exceptions are limited and frequently contested by insurance companies and defendants, it’s important to get legal advice early on. Speaking with a personal injury attorney can help make sure your claim is filed on time, any possible exceptions are reviewed, and your rights are protected throughout the process.

What If the Deadline Has Already Passed?

Even if you think the deadline to file a wrongful death claim has passed, it’s still worth speaking with an attorney. There may be specific situations that give you more time, but these are often complicated and hard to sort out without legal help. A wrongful death attorney can look at the details of your case, see if any exceptions apply, and move quickly to protect your family’s rights. Don’t assume it’s too late until you’ve talked to someone who knows the law.

How a Texas Wrongful Death Lawyer Can Help

Working with a Texas wrongful death lawyer means having someone on your side who listens, explains things clearly, and walks you through the legal process step by step. With experience handling similar cases and a deep understanding of Texas law, your attorney can make sure your claim is thorough, timely, and built to stand strong — so you can focus on your family while they handle the legal side.

A wrongful death attorney can help carry the burden for your family by:

Investigating the circumstances of your loved one’s death to uncover the truth
Collecting and preserving critical evidence and witness statements
Handling all communications with insurance companies and opposing parties
Managing important court filings, deadlines, and legal documents
Explaining your rights and keeping you informed throughout the process
Negotiating for fair settlements or representing you at trial if necessary

With Aldous Law at your side, your family can focus on healing while they take the lead in seeking justice. Our support can make a significant difference in achieving accountability, securing rightful compensation, and ultimately finding a measure of peace after a devastating loss.

Don’t Wait—Protect Your Family’s Rights Today

If your family is searching for answers or hopes to explore your legal options, Aldous Law is here to listen and help. We understand how much you’ve endured, and we want to stand by your side as you honor your loved one’s memory. Reach out for a free consultation with our dedicated wrongful death attorneys. We’ll provide clear guidance and genuine support at every step, so you can feel secure knowing your family’s rights are protected.

Aldous Law Recovers $20M For the Family of the Man Killed In a Fatal Greyhound Bus Accident

Paula Becker and Barron Brown v. Greyhound Lines, Inc.

In 2017, 25-year-old Hunter Brown was traveling by Greyhound bus to California when the driver made an early-morning stop at a Pilot Travel Center in Central Point, Oregon. Like many passengers, Hunter got off the bus to stretch, use the restroom, and grab food. But before the scheduled departure time—and without performing the mandatory headcount—the driver began pulling away.

As Hunter ran toward the bus, banging on the door to be let back in, the driver turned the wheel and struck him. Hunter was run over and killed. Tragically, the driver didn’t stop. He continued on his route, and Greyhound continued employing him for months after the incident.

Hunter’s parents, Dr. Barry Brown and Paula Becker, turned to Aldous Law for answers and accountability.

Digging for the Truth

Attorneys Charla Aldous, Brent Walker, and Caleb Miller brought the wrongful death lawsuit against Greyhound. At trial, they presented evidence that the driver, Arthur Coley, had a history of failing to follow safety protocols—especially the required passenger headcount. Records showed that Greyhound failed to reprimand him meaningfully, only advising him to “take headcounts in the future.” He was later fired for a separate incident in which he allegedly broke a bystander’s phone for filming him being rude to passengers.

A Dallas County jury found Greyhound Lines, Inc. negligent in causing Hunter’s death and awarded his parents $20 million in compensatory damages.

“Entirely Preventable”

“This was a horrible, entirely preventable tragedy,” said Charla Aldous. “Greyhound has an obligation to keep its passengers safe. That certainly was not the case here.”

After two long years, Hunter’s family finally received justice. In a joint statement, they shared:

“We are grateful to the jury for seeing the horrible actions of this bus driver and the company’s irresponsibility for continuing to employ him. We hope Greyhound changes its policies to make sure this doesn’t happen to another family.”

Contact Aldous Law today to discuss your potential case with our award-winning trial lawyers.

Framed photo of greyhound station with "His name was Hunter Brown" written below it.

Medical Malpractice Month: Promoting Awareness

Aldous Law has earned a reputation as a respected civil trial practice, and a record of success in a range of personal injury and wrongful death cases. While every case has its unique challenges, few are as complex as those involving medical malpractice.

With the month of July being Medical Malpractice Month, our legal team would like to show our support for promoting awareness, transparency, and a greater understanding of medical negligence.

NMMAA & Medical Malpractice Awareness Month

Medical Malpractice Month is organized by the National Medical Malpractice Advocacy Association (NMMAA), a non-partisan civil rights organization committed to patient advocacy and higher quality care nationwide.

The mission’s primary objective is to reduce high rates of malpractice in health care, as well as high rates of unreported claims – a problem which allows careless providers and medical professionals to evade accountability, and patients to continually suffer harms for which they go uncompensated. As the NMMAA notes, medical malpractice accounts for:

More than 440,000 patient deaths each year;
Millions of preventable injuries, illnesses, and health complications;
Roughly 1,200 deaths each day.

With statistics like these, the NMMAA focuses on real solutions – primarily through holding doctors, hospitals, and other providers accountable for careless mistakes, negligence, and failures to meet accepted standards of their profession. NMMAA works to achieve this through various education, awareness, and advocacy efforts.

You can learn more about Medical Malpractice Month, find helpful resources, and see how you can get involved in patient advocacy efforts on the NMMAA website.

So What is Medical Malpractice?

So what exactly does medical malpractice look like? Unfortunately, no answer can suffice; it truly depends on the facts and circumstances surrounding a case. For example, medical malpractice may involve:

Generally, asking whether the treating provider in question acted in a manner that any reasonably skilled and experienced professional would have acted under the same or similar circumstances is a good place to start understanding whether you may have a potential claim.

That’s because there are complex concepts at work, often multiple medical professionals involved in a patient’s care, and inherent risks to any treatment or surgery – which means not every adverse outcome or complication was preventable or the result of negligence.

Given the challenges of litigating medical malpractice cases, it is vital for victims to work with skilled attorneys who can help determine their rights and options, and assist in any needed investigations, collaboration with medical experts, and construction of strong and convincing claims.

A History of Fighting for Patients and Families

As a firm that represents injured patients and families, we know medical malpractice can cause permanent and profound physical, financial, and emotional suffering.

Though we want it to be clear these claims are highly technical and highly fact-specific, we also want patients to know that medical professionals have legal obligations to meet their “duty of care,” and that they can be held accountable when they fail to do so. That’s precisely what the NMMAA wants to stress during Medical Malpractice Month.

If you have questions about medical malpractice or a potential case, contact Aldous Law. Our firm has handled a number of high-profile cases involving medical negligence, and Founding Attorney Charla Aldous has twice been named “Lawyer of the Year” by Best Lawyers for Medical Malpractice. We have what it takes to protect patients’ rights.