Yes, even if you were partially at fault in a car crash, hiring a personal injury attorney is often the right decision. In California, you can still pursue compensation under the state’s pure comparative negligence rules. Your award is reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. For example, if you are found 30 percent at fault, you can still recover 70 percent of your damages.
Why Legal Help Matters When You Are Partially Responsible
Maximize Your Compensation
An experienced lawyer can minimize the percentage of fault assigned to you and fight for a fair settlement.
Protect Against Insurance Tactics
Insurance companies often try to shift more blame onto you to reduce payouts. A lawyer understands these strategies and works to protect your claim.
Navigate Comparative Negligence
The legal principle of comparative negligence assigns fault proportionally. A skilled attorney ensures that this principle is applied fairly in your case.
Benefits of Hiring a Lawyer in Part Fault Accidents
- You can still recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering even if you share responsibility.
- A lawyer can collect vital evidence such as reports, witness testimony, and photos to strengthen your case.
- Attorneys are skilled negotiators and prepared to go to trial if necessary.
- Your lawyer will handle communication to prevent mistakes such as admitting fault or giving harmful statements to insurers.
How Comparative Negligence Works in California
California follows a pure comparative negligence system. This means you can still recover damages even if you are mostly at fault. Your recovery will simply be reduced by the percentage of responsibility assigned to you.
Next Steps to Take
Seek medical attention right away, even if you feel uninjured. Document the accident scene, vehicle damage, and injuries with photos and reports. Consult with an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and have them manage all communication with insurance companies.
Key Takeaway
Even if you share responsibility for a car accident, you still have the right to pursue compensation in California. A knowledgeable attorney can reduce the share of fault assigned to you, strengthen your case with evidence, and protect you from insurance tactics. Taking action quickly ensures your rights and financial recovery are safeguarded.
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Disclaimer: The material provided in these blogs is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Our intent is to share knowledge, raise awareness, and provide helpful resources to the public. The photos used in these posts are for illustrative purposes only and are not representative of any actual incident or individuals. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, please contact Hillstone Law at (855) 691-1691. Our attorneys are available to answer your legal questions and help you understand your rights.
