What is Contributory Fault in California?

In California, contributory fault, also known as comparative negligence, is a legal principle that plays a significant role in personal injury cases. It is a concept that recognizes that more than one party may be responsible for an accident or injury, and assigns a portion of fault to each party involved based on their degree of negligence. Unlike some other states, California follows a pure comparative negligence system, which means that even if an injured person is partially at fault for an incident, they can still recover damages from the other party involved, albeit reduced by their own percentage of fault. This legal doctrine aims to ensure a fair and equitable distribution of liability, considering the actions and negligence of all parties in a given case.

What is Comparative Negligence in California? 

Comparative negligence in California is a system designed to assign fault and determine the proportionate liability of each party involved in an accident or injury. Under California’s pure comparative negligence rule, a plaintiff can still recover damages even if they are partially at fault for the incident. The amount of damages awarded is reduced by the plaintiff’s own percentage of fault. For example, if the plaintiff is found to be 30% at fault, their awarded damages will be reduced by 30%. This principle aims to ensure that each party is held accountable for their share of negligence, resulting in a fair and proportional allocation of liability.

What are the Damages That Can Be Awarded for Personal Injury Claims in California? 

In California, personal injury claims can potentially lead to various types of damages awarded to the injured party. These damages aim to compensate the plaintiff for the losses and harm they have suffered due to the injury. The following are some common types of damages that can be awarded in personal injury cases in California:

• Economic Damages: These are tangible financial losses that can be objectively measured, such as medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, property damage, and future medical expenses or lost earning capacity.
• Non-Economic Damages: These are intangible losses that are not easily quantifiable, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and loss of consortium (impairment of spousal relationship or companionship).
• Punitive Damages: These damages aim to punish the defendant and deter others from engaging in similar behavior.
• Wrongful Death Damages: In cases where a person’s death is caused by another party’s negligence or intentional act, certain damages may be awarded to the deceased person’s family or estate. These damages may include funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, loss of companionship, and emotional distress.

How Does Comparative Negligence Work in California Personal Injury Cases?

Comparative negligence operates under the concept that more than one party may share responsibility for an accident or injury.

Here’s how comparative negligence works in California:

• Assessment of Fault: The court or jury examines the facts and evidence presented in the case to determine the degree of fault for each party involved, including the plaintiff. This assessment is usually expressed as a percentage.
• Damage Calculation: The total amount of damages the plaintiff is entitled to receive is calculated based on their total losses, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
• Reduction of Damages: The damages awarded to the plaintiff are then reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if the plaintiff is found to be 20% at fault and the total damages are $100,000, the plaintiff’s recovery would be reduced by 20% to $80,000.
• Apportionment of Liability: Each party is responsible for their share of the damages based on their assigned percentage of fault. For example, if the defendant is 80% at fault and the plaintiff is 20% at fault, the defendant would be responsible for 80% of the damages.

Comparative negligence ensures that the injured party can still seek compensation for their losses, even if they bear some responsibility for the incident. However, it’s important to note that the plaintiff’s recovery will be reduced by their own percentage of fault.

Is It Possible to Avoid Comparative Fault Allegations After an Accident? 

It is not possible to entirely avoid comparative fault allegations after an accident if there is evidence suggesting that you may have contributed to the incident. Comparative fault is a legal principle that recognizes the possibility of shared responsibility among multiple parties involved in an accident or injury.

However, there are steps you can take to mitigate or minimize allegations of comparative fault:

• Gather evidence: Collect as much evidence as possible to support your version of events and demonstrate that your actions were not negligent or contributed minimally to the accident. This may include photographs, witness statements, video footage, or any other relevant documentation.
• Obtain expert opinions: If applicable, consult with experts who can provide their professional assessment or analysis of the accident, such as accident reconstruction specialists or medical professionals. Their expertise can help establish a clearer understanding of the circumstances and potentially diminish allegations of comparative fault.
• Consult with an attorney: Seek legal advice from a personal injury attorney who can assess your case and provide guidance on how to navigate comparative fault allegations. An attorney can help protect your rights, build a strong defense, and advocate on your behalf.
• Maintain consistent statements: It is crucial to provide accurate and consistent statements regarding the accident. Avoid admitting fault or making inconsistent statements that could be used against you later. Be cautious when discussing the incident with insurance adjusters, and consult with your attorney before providing any formal statements.
• Negotiate or dispute allegations: If comparative fault is alleged, your attorney can negotiate with the other party or their insurance company to reach a fair settlement that considers the extent of your liability. In some cases, it may be necessary to dispute the allegations in court and present your case before a judge or jury.

While you may not be able to entirely avoid comparative fault allegations, taking proactive measures and seeking legal assistance can help you navigate the legal process and potentially reduce the impact of such allegations on your case.