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What Is Comparative Negligence

Comparative negligence is a legal principle that allows fault to be divided between parties involved in an accident.

This means:
  • You can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault
  • Your percentage of fault may reduce your recovery
  • Insurance companies often try to increase your share of fault
Understanding how fault is assigned is critical to protecting your claim.

How Fault Is Determined

Fault is evaluated using evidence such as:
  • Police reports
  • Witness statements
  • Traffic camera footage
  • Expert accident reconstruction
  • Medical records
The stronger your evidence, the more effectively fault can be clarified.

How Shared Fault Affects Compensation

If you are found partially responsible, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.

For example:
  • If you are 20 percent at fault
  • And your damages total $100,000
  • Your recovery may be reduced to $80,000
Insurance companies often use this rule to limit payouts, which is why careful case preparation matters.

Protecting Yourself From Unfair Blame

To protect your claim:
  • Avoid admitting fault at the scene
  • Do not speculate about what happened
  • Seek medical treatment promptly
  • Consult legal guidance before speaking in detail with insurers
Even small statements can be used to shift blame.

When to Speak With an Attorney

If the insurance company claims you were partially responsible for the accident, speaking with a personal injury attorney can help protect your rights. Legal representation ensures fault is fairly evaluated and that you pursue the maximum compensation available under the law.

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I want to share my experience with Scott Edgett and his team, because finding an attorney who truly stands with you is not something you come across often.What impressed me most was the way Scott took the time to understand me as a whole person. He did not treat my situation like something routine or transactional. He took time to learn what I valu...

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Scott and his team of lawyers are truly outstanding. They were always available during difficult times, answering our calls at virtually any hour of the day or night. Their dedication and diligence in handling our family case went above and beyond, working tirelessly to ensure complete client satisfaction. I cannot fully express my gratitude in wor...

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A coworker used Mr. Edgett services and a situation came up that she need answers asap. I was very impressed on how he kept responding back to her multiple times until this issue was resolved. To me it shows he's compassionate and understood what was needed and he was able to assist her.

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Gabriel F.

Motorcycle Accident Client

Mallory was super helpful through a very tough process regarding my family. Amy was also very sweet and professional. Although we did not actually end up needing to hire them, they really helped us understand everything we were going through and gave us great advice! I’d definitely recommend this law firm to my friends and family.

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Catastrophic Injury Client

I highly recommend attorney Scott Edgett law firm to any parent or family member seeking legal representation. They treated us like family and genuinely cared about our well being and daughters best interests throughout the entire process

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Sergio g.

Catastrophic Injury Client

I trust this law firm so much! Their services are great!! Scott is AMAZING! The most professional and honest place I’ve been to. I would recommend to everyone!

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Marlene F.

Catastrophic Injury Client

I want to share my experience with Scott Edgett and his team, because finding an attorney who truly stands with you is not something you come across often.What impressed me most was the way Scott took the time to understand me as a whole person. He did not treat my situation like something routine or transactional. He took time to learn what I valu...

C

Camille S.

Truck Accident Client

Exceptional from start to finish. Scott and his whole team were patient, prepared, communicated clearly throughout the process, and delivered a result that exceeded our expectations. You can tell they genuinely care about their clients. I couldn't recommend them more highly.

J

Jack T.

Car Accident Client

Scott and his team of lawyers are truly outstanding. They were always available during difficult times, answering our calls at virtually any hour of the day or night. Their dedication and diligence in handling our family case went above and beyond, working tirelessly to ensure complete client satisfaction. I cannot fully express my gratitude in wor...

A

Andrei H.

Wrongful Death Client

A coworker used Mr. Edgett services and a situation came up that she need answers asap. I was very impressed on how he kept responding back to her multiple times until this issue was resolved. To me it shows he's compassionate and understood what was needed and he was able to assist her.

A

AL F.

Slip and Fall Client

This law firm helped me get through a lot and I will forever be grateful to them! I always refer friends and family. Tonya was very helpful! They truly care for their clients. 10/10

G

Gabriel F.

Motorcycle Accident Client

Mallory was super helpful through a very tough process regarding my family. Amy was also very sweet and professional. Although we did not actually end up needing to hire them, they really helped us understand everything we were going through and gave us great advice! I’d definitely recommend this law firm to my friends and family.

R

Rochelle B.

Catastrophic Injury Client

I highly recommend attorney Scott Edgett law firm to any parent or family member seeking legal representation. They treated us like family and genuinely cared about our well being and daughters best interests throughout the entire process

S

Sergio g.

Catastrophic Injury Client

I trust this law firm so much! Their services are great!! Scott is AMAZING! The most professional and honest place I’ve been to. I would recommend to everyone!

M

Marlene F.

Catastrophic Injury Client

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