Car Accident Lawsuits Modified comparative negligence The modified comparative negligence rule in lawsuits involving car accidents is a legal principle that allows partial recovery of damages even if other party was partially at the fault. This concept was developed to make the process more fair for both parties. If a person is partly responsible for an accident, the court may reduce the amount of their financial compensation to reflect the contribution they made to the accident. In some states, pure comparative negligence can also be used. I