Car Accident Lawsuits Modified comparative negligence Modified the rules of comparative negligence in car accident lawsuits allows partial recovery of damages, even if the other party was partially to the fault. This concept was designed to ensure that the process is more fair for both sides. A court may reduce the amount of financial compensation if an individual is partially at fault for an accident , in order to reflect their role. In some states, the concept of pure negligence may also be applied. It is applied to determine who's actions