Car Accident Lawsuits Modified comparative negligence The modified comparative negligence rule in the case of car accidents is a legal principle that permits partial recovery of damages even if other party was partially at fault. This concept was designed to make the process more fair for both parties. A court may reduce the amount of financial damages if an individual is partially at fault for an accident , in order to reflect their part in the cause. Pure comparative negligence can also be used in a few states. It is used to determine who i