Slip & Fall
Slip & Fall and Premises Liability Attorneys in Liberty & Kansas City, Missouri
Property owners have a duty to provide a safe environment for people who visit their homes or businesses. When they fail to maintain their property and someone is seriously injured as a result, they can be held accountable.
Maybe you slipped on an icy parking lot and tore ligaments in your knee. Maybe a broken step gave way and caused a fall that fractured your leg. Maybe falling merchandise at a retail store caused a head injury. These are not just accidents. They are the result of negligence.
At Dougherty & Holloway, our attorneys have more than 30 years of experience representing people who have suffered serious injuries due to unsafe property conditions. We have obtained millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements in premises liability cases involving businesses, government properties, private homes, and construction sites throughout Missouri and Kansas.
How We Prove a Premises Liability Case
In any premises liability case, it must be shown that the party in control of the property either knew or should have known about the dangerous condition before the injury occurred. This is where experienced legal representation makes a critical difference.
When possible, we obtain and review security camera footage to determine how long a hazardous condition existed before your accident. We interview witnesses. We thoroughly investigate both the incident and the property's history to determine if there have been prior complaints or similar incidents.
We also identify every party that may bear responsibility. In some cases, liability extends beyond the property owner to include a property management company, a maintenance contractor, or a tenant responsible for upkeep.
Premises Liability Cases We Handle
Falls & Structural
- Slip-and-fall accidents on ice or wet surfaces
- Stairway and step accidents
- Elevator and escalator accidents
- Roof or window falls
- Playground accidents
- Dangerous retail layouts and designs
Commercial & Security
- Unsafe conditions in stores
- Falling merchandise
- Sharp corners and defects in retail displays
- Bar and lounge liability
- Hotel and motel liability
- Assaults due to inadequate or negligent security
Environmental & Hazards
- Dog bites
- Electrocution
- Propane explosions
- Toxic exposure and chemical contamination
- Improper warning signs
- Inappropriate construction site safety
This list is not exhaustive. If you were injured on someone else's property due to a dangerous condition, contact us to discuss your case.
How We Handle Your Premises Liability Case
Investigate the Property
We visit the accident site, document the dangerous condition, and request security footage and maintenance records before evidence can be altered or destroyed.
Establish Notice
We work to prove that the property owner knew about or should have known about the hazard. Prior complaints, inspection records, and the length of time a condition existed are all critical factors.
Document Your Injuries
We work with your medical team to understand the full extent of your injuries, including any long-term effects on your mobility, ability to work, and quality of life.
Pursue Compensation
We negotiate with the property owner's insurance company for compensation covering medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and ongoing care. If a fair settlement is not offered, we are prepared to take your case to trial.
"Every single person in the office is great to work with! They all work so hard and do a great job keeping you in the loop and explaining everything about your case. They fought hard for me to get my settlement and I was very happy with the result. My case was very emotional and they were always so sensitive to that."
Amy H
Personal Injury Client
Each client's case is unique. These testimonials reflect individual experiences and do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Slip & Fall FAQ
You need to show that the property owner knew about or should have known about the dangerous condition and failed to correct it or warn visitors. Evidence such as security footage, maintenance logs, witness statements, and records of prior complaints can help establish this. An experienced premises liability attorney can investigate and build this case on your behalf.
You may still be able to file a claim, but cases against government entities in Missouri have specific procedural requirements and shorter notice deadlines. It is important to contact an attorney promptly if your injury occurred on government property so that all required deadlines are met.
Missouri follows a pure comparative fault rule. Even if you are found partially at fault for your injuries, you can still recover compensation. Your recovery amount would be reduced by your percentage of fault. The property owner's attempt to shift blame to you is a common defense tactic that an experienced attorney can address.
The statute of limitations for most premises liability claims in Missouri is five years from the date of the injury. However, claims against government entities may have shorter notice requirements. Contacting an attorney early ensures that all deadlines are met and evidence is preserved.
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