Comparative & Contributory Negligence by State

Being partly at fault means something very different depending on where the accident happened — a reduced payout in most states, or a claim barred entirely in five of them. Pick a state below to see which rule actually applies.

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What's in a negligence estimate

Each state page below identifies which of the four US fault systems applies — pure comparative, modified comparative with a 50% or 51% bar, or pure contributory negligence — and shows exactly what a given share of fault means for what can actually be recovered. Every figure is tied to cited statute or case law — see our methodology for how we verify each one.

Every state page provides an estimate for general guidance only and is not legal advice. Figures are based on cited state law, verified per our methodology. Confirm how these rules apply to a specific claim with a licensed attorney in your state before acting.