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California: shared fault rules

Whether you can still recover money if you were partly at fault for an accident, and how much your share of fault costs you.

Fault system	Pure comparative negligence
When fault bars recovery	Up to 99% at fault: damages reduced by your share
Law	Cal. Civ. Code 1714; Li v. Yellow Cab (1975)

Your share of fault usually reduces what you can recover by the same percentage. Insurers use this rule when negotiating, so it matters even if you never sue.

General information only, not legal, insurance or financial advice. Not affiliated with any government agency. Exceptions can apply. Confirm with the state agency, the court or a licensed professional in California.

Also for California: Car insurance by state in California · Claim deadlines in California · Small claims limits in California · Total loss rules in California · Accident reporting rules in California · Lemon law rules in California · Sales tax rates in California · Phone-while-driving laws in California · Motorcycle helmet laws in California · Gas tax in California

How we checked this

Rules come from a statute-cited 2026 personal injury table and match a defense firm's 51-jurisdiction chart, including Florida's 2023 change to a 51% bar. Last checked: November 12, 2026. Laws change; confirm with the state agency or a licensed professional before acting.

Cross-checked sources agree   Checked on official source confirmed on a government, court or legislature site   Single detailed source one detailed table built from statutes or official data   Under review sources disagree; read the note and the law.