Auto Accidents
Injured in a Car Crash? Here’s What to Do Next
A wreck can upend life in seconds—medical bills, missed work, totaled car, nonstop insurance calls. For 25+ years, Dan Rau has helped Southeast Missouri drivers stand up to insurers and rebuild after serious crashes.
Whether you were rear‑ended downtown, hit on I‑55, or injured while driving for work, Dan offers clear guidance and a plan you can trust.
Common Auto Accident Cases Dan Handles
- Rear‑end, T‑bone, and head‑on collisions
- Distracted and drunk driving crashes
- Intersection, highway, and rural road wrecks
- Multi‑vehicle pileups
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist claims
- Fatal accidents (see Wrongful Death)
What Dan Does for You
- Investigates fault and preserves evidence (dash/video, E911, scene data)
- Deals with adjusters and protects you from lowball offers
- Calculates full damages: medical care, lost wages, vehicle loss, pain & suffering
- Coordinates treatment and specialist referrals when needed
- Prepares every case for trial to maximize leverage
“I don’t just file paperwork. I make sure clients understand what’s happening—and why—every step of the way.”
— Dan Rau
Missouri Law: Quick Guide
- Statute of Limitations (Injury): Generally 5 years from the crash; Wrongful Death: generally 3 years. Act early to preserve evidence.
- Pure Comparative Fault: You can still recover even if partly at fault; your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.
- UM/UIM Coverage: Missouri requires Uninsured Motorist (UM) on auto policies; Underinsured (UIM) is common and can help when the at‑fault driver’s limits are too low.
- Property Damage & Med Pay: Claims for vehicle damage follow different timelines; optional Med Pay can help with early medical bills regardless of fault.
- Recorded Statements: You’re not required to give the other driver’s insurer a recorded statement—talk to a lawyer first.
This is a quick overview—not legal advice. Dan can explain how Missouri rules apply to your case.
25+ Years Experience
Local to Cape Girardeau
No Fee Unless You Win
Dan has represented drivers from Cape Girardeau, Jackson, Dexter, Perryville, Sikeston, and beyond—bringing straight talk and steady advocacy to every case.
After a Car Accident, Do This First
- Move to safety; call 911
- Ask for a police report number
- Exchange insurance/contact info
- Photograph vehicles, scene, and injuries
- Get medical care (even if symptoms seem mild)
- Talk to a local injury lawyer before giving a recorded statement
If your crash happened during your job (delivery, company car, commuting for work duties), Workers’ Compensation may also apply.
Get In Touch
Dan is available to answer your questions 24/7.
Missouri Auto Accident FAQs
Do I need a police report?
It’s highly helpful. It documents the crash and insurers expect it.
What if the at‑fault driver has no insurance?
Your UM coverage may step in. Dan will review all applicable policies.
How long will my case take?
It varies with treatment and negotiations. Many cases settle before trial, but Dan prepares as if trial is possible.
Should I post about the crash on social media?
No. Insurers may use it against you. Keep details private and speak with counsel first.
The crash happened while I was working—what now?
You may have both a workers’ comp claim and an injury claim. See Workers’ Compensation.
Contact Us
Visit My Office in Cape Girardeau
Not Sure Where Your Situation Fits? That’s normal.
Dan will help you sort it out in a free, no‑pressure consultation and explain the best path forward.