Slip & Fall
A Simple Fall Can Change Everything
It only takes one unsafe step to turn your life upside down. Slip and fall injuries often lead to broken bones, back and neck injuries, head trauma, and time away from work. If you were hurt because someone failed to keep their property safe, you may be entitled to compensation. Dan Rau helps clients across Cape Girardeau and Southeast Missouri hold negligent property owners accountable.
Don’t let someone else’s negligence leave you footing the bill. Dan Rau is ready to help you understand your options and pursue fair compensation.
Where Do Slip & Fall Accidents Happen?
- Grocery and retail stores
- Restaurants and public restrooms
- Sidewalks, parking lots, and stairwells
- Apartment complexes and rental properties
- Nursing homes and assisted living facilities
- Job sites (see Workers’ Compensation if you fell at work)
Common Causes of Dangerous Falls
- Wet or slick floors without warning signs
- Uneven pavement or loose floor mats
- Broken handrails or missing safety features
- Poor lighting in stairwells or walkways
- Clutter or obstacles in aisles
- Ice or snow not removed within a reasonable time
What Dan Does for Slip & Fall Victims
- Investigates the scene and secures photos/video and incident reports
- Interviews witnesses and reviews maintenance/inspection logs
- Works with medical providers to document injuries and future care
- Calculates medical bills, lost wages, and pain & suffering
- Negotiates firmly—and takes cases to court when needed
“A property owner’s neglect shouldn’t become your burden. I’ll help you stand up for your rights and move forward.”
— Dan Rau
Missouri Law: Quick Guide
- Statute of Limitations: Generally 5 years for Missouri personal injury claims. Acting sooner helps preserve evidence.
- Comparative Fault: Missouri follows pure comparative fault—you may still recover compensation even if you’re partly at fault; your award is reduced by your percentage of fault.
- Property Owner’s Duty: Businesses and landlords must fix hazards they knew or should have known about, or warn visitors until repairs are made.
- Government or Public Property: Special rules and shorter deadlines may apply. Talk with an attorney quickly.
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
From Perryville to Poplar Bluff, Sikeston to Ste. Genevieve, Dan provides clear, honest guidance and handles the legal load so you can focus on healing.
Get In Touch
Dan is available to answer your questions 24/7.
Slip & Fall FAQs (Missouri)
Do I have a case if I slipped in a store?
Possibly. If the business knew—or should have known—about the hazard and failed to fix or warn, you may have a claim.
What if I was looking at my phone when I fell?
Missouri’s pure comparative fault may still allow recovery; your compensation could be reduced based on your share of fault.
How long do I have to file?
Generally 5 years in Missouri, but important evidence (like video) can disappear within days. Call as soon as you can.
Can I sue my landlord for unsafe stairs or lighting?
Yes, if they failed to address known hazards or code violations.
What if I fell at work?
That’s likely a Workers’ Compensation matter; Dan can evaluate both routes when third-party negligence is involved.
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.