Car Accident Lawsuits Modified comparative negligence The modified comparative negligence rule in car accident lawsuits is a legal principle that permits partial recovery of damages even if the other party was at the fault. This concept was developed to create a more equitable process for both parties. If a person is partly responsible for an accident, the court can reduce the value of their financial compensation in order to reflect their part in the accident. In certain states, the concept of pure comparative negligence is also used. It is