Comparative Negligence in Illinois Personal Injury Cases

Who is at Fault? Comparative Negligence in Illinois Personal Injury Cases

Navigating through a personal injury case can be a daunting task, especially when dealing with the intricacies of comparative negligence law in Illinois. This comprehensive guide aims to simplify the complexities and provide a step-by-step walkthrough of the process.

Understanding Comparative Negligence

Comparative negligence is a legal principle that determines the extent of responsibility each party holds in an accident. Unlike contributory negligence, where the plaintiff could be barred from recovering damages if they were even slightly at fault, comparative negligence allows for a more equitable distribution of damages based on each party’s degree of fault.

illinois comparative fault personal injury law

Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence system. This means that a plaintiff can recover damages as long as they are less than 50% at fault. However, their compensation will be reduced by their percentage of fault. For instance, if you were 30% at fault in a car accident, your damages would be reduced by 30%.


Types of Personal Injury Cases

Comparative negligence comes into play in various types of personal injury cases, including but not limited to:


The Effect of Comparative Negligence in Damage Awards

Scenario Plaintiff’s Fault Defendant’s Fault Total Damages Final Compensation
Car Accident 20% 80% $100,000 $80,000
Slip and Fall 51% 49% $50,000 $0
Medical Malpractice 10% 90% $200,000 $180,000

The table above provides a snapshot of how comparative negligence can impact the final compensation in a personal injury case.


Proving Negligence in Court

Proving negligence in court requires evidence that the defendant owed a duty of care, breached that duty, and that the breach caused your injuries. This might include medical records, witness testimonies, or accident scene photos.

Filing a lawsuit involves drafting a complaint, serving it to the defendant, and engaging in discovery. The settlement process may involve negotiations with the defendant or their insurance company.


Comparative Negligence and Insurance

Insurance companies often factor in comparative negligence when determining settlement offers. They may argue that you were partially at fault to reduce their payout.

Checklist for Filing a Personal Injury Case

  1. Seek immediate medical attention
  2. Document the incident and gather evidence
  3. Consult with a personal injury attorney
  4. File a complaint in court
  5. Engage in the discovery process
  6. Negotiate a settlement or proceed to trial

Overcoming hurdles in personal injury cases often involves understanding the legal landscape, gathering strong evidence, and effectively presenting your case.


As an injured party, you have the right to seek compensation for your losses. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Understanding the nuances of comparative negligence in Illinois can significantly impact the outcome of your personal injury case. Armed with this knowledge, you can better navigate the legal process and protect your rights.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized legal advice regarding your injury case, please consult with a qualified attorney.

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