Understanding Comparative Negligence in Florida Personal Injury Cases

If you’ve been injured in an accident in Florida, understanding how fault is determined is an important part of the process. Florida uses a system called comparative negligence to figure out who is responsible for an accident and how it affects compensation. Working with a lawyer for personal injury can help you better understand your rights and how the system works. 

What Is Comparative Negligence? 

Comparative negligence is a way to decide how much responsibility each person involved in an accident has. Florida follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means: 

• You can recover damages as long as you are 50% or less at fault. 

• If you are more than 50% at fault, you won’t be able to get compensation. 

For example: 

• If you are awarded $50,000 but found to be 20% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by 20%, so you’ll receive $40,000. 

How Is Fault Determined? 

Fault is determined by looking at all the details of the accident. This includes: 

1. Accident Reports: Reports from law enforcement can give a clear picture of what happened. 
2. Witness Accounts: People who saw the accident can provide helpful information.
3. Evidence from the Scene: Photos, videos, or other details from the scene can show what led to the accident.

Common Types of Cases Involving Comparative Negligence 

This system applies to many personal injury cases, such as: 

• Car Accidents: For example, if both drivers were speeding, they may share responsibility. 

• Slip and Fall Accidents: A property owner and the injured person may both be partially responsible, depending on the circumstances. 

Why You Should Consider a Lawyer for Personal Injury Cases 

Florida’s comparative negligence rules can be complicated, especially when insurance companies get involved. A lawyer for personal injury can guide you through the process and help ensure you aren’t unfairly blamed for more than your share of fault. 

Here’s how they can help: 

• Organize Your Case: Gather important evidence and present it clearly. 
• Negotiate on Your Behalf: Deal with insurance companies to pursue a fair settlement. 

• Stand Up for You in Court: If it comes to that, they will handle everything so you can focus on recovery. 

Moving Forward 

If you’ve been hurt because of someone else’s actions, it’s important to understand how Florida’s comparative negligence rules might affect your case. By getting help from a lawyer for personal injury, you can protect your rights and work toward the compensation you need to move forward. 

Reach out to Kemp Law Group today for a free consultation. Don’t let the complexity of fault rules stop you from seeking the justice you deserve.