Shared Fault Doesn’t Mean No Compensation

Were you partially at fault for a car accident in San Diego? Don’t assume you have no case. Thanks to California’s comparative fault laws, you may still be entitled to significant compensation—even if you share blame. But to protect your claim, you’ll need to understand how these laws work. Let’s find out how fault impacts your case in California.

What Is Comparative Fault?

California follows a pure comparative negligence system. This means that:

• Each party involved in a crash can be assigned a percentage of fault.

• Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault.

• Even if you are 99% at fault, you can still recover 1% of your damages.

Example: If your total damages are $100,000 and you're found 20% at fault, you can still recover $80,000.

Related keywords: shared fault car accident, partial liability California, comparative negligence

Who Decides Fault Percentage?

Insurance adjusters, lawyers, or the court determine fault based on:

• Police reports

• Witness statements

• Traffic camera footage

• Vehicle damage and accident reconstruction

Your San Diego car accident lawyer plays a vital role in presenting your side of the story to minimize your percentage of blame.

Generic keyword: Learn more about how fault is investigated after an accident.

Why Insurance Companies Use Comparative Fault to Pay Less

Insurance providers are quick to assign partial fault to reduce their payout. They may claim:

• You were speeding

• You weren’t wearing a seatbelt

• You could have avoided the crash

Even minor blame can cost you thousands. Having a skilled personal injury attorney in San Diego ensures you’re not unfairly blamed or underpaid.

Related keywords: fault dispute with insurer, reduce fault percentage, insurance tactics

Common Scenarios Where Shared Fault Applies

Understanding when comparative fault comes into play can help you prepare. Examples include:

• Rear-end collisions where the lead driver suddenly brakes

• Accidents involving multiple vehicles

• Pedestrian or cyclist accidents with unclear signals

A knowledgeable San Diego crash attorney will carefully examine the situation to argue against excessive fault being placed on you.

Generic keyword: Get started with a case review to clarify your legal position.

How to Strengthen Your Claim Despite Partial Fault

If you may share some responsibility, your legal strategy is even more important. Your attorney will:

• Gather and preserve evidence that supports your version of events

• Challenge inconsistent or biased witness statements

• Work with accident reconstruction experts if needed

Reducing your fault by even 10% can significantly increase your final payout.

Related keywords: legal defense against shared fault, reduce liability, accident evidence

Don’t Let Fault Stop You From Filing a Claim

Too many accident victims walk away from claims because they think they were “too much at fault.” But in California, you can still be compensated.

If you’re uncertain about your case:

• Talk to a lawyer before assuming anything

• Understand your rights under California law

• Take action within the statute of limitations (2 years)

Generic keyword: Contact us now to find out where you stand legally.

Shared Fault Isn’t the End—It’s Just the Start

Being partially at fault doesn’t mean giving up your right to compensation. With the help of a skilled San Diego car accident attorney, you can challenge unfair blame, reduce your liability, and still receive the recovery you deserve.

At Credible Law, we know how to fight comparative fault claims and protect your financial future. Discover the best legal support in San Diego—get a free case evaluation today.