Car Accident Lawsuits Modified comparative negligence The modified comparative negligence rule in lawsuits involving car accidents is a legal doctrine that allows partial recovery of damages even if the other party was partly at the fault. This concept was created to make the process more fair for both sides. If a person is partly at fault for an accident, the court can reduce the value of their financial compensation to reflect their contribution to the accident. In certain states, the concept of pure negligence may also be used. It is used