Partially at Fault for a Car Accident in New York? Here’s What You Need to Know
Introduction
Published by Kari Law Group, PLLC
📍 Richmond Hill, NY | ☎️ (718) 395-1818 | ✉️ info@karilaw.com
🌐 www.karilaw.com
If you’ve been involved in a car accident and believe you may be partially at fault, one question likely weighs heavily on your mind:
“Can I still recover compensation?”
The short answer is: yes, you can.
In New York, being partially responsible for an accident does not mean you’re out of options. In fact, the law allows you to pursue financial recovery even if the other party isn’t solely to blame.
At Kari Law Group, PLLC, we help individuals every day who face this exact situation. Below, we explain how liability works in these cases—and how we fight to protect your rights.
New York’s Pure Comparative Negligence Rule: What It Means for You
New York follows a pure comparative negligence system. Under this rule, each party involved in an accident is assigned a percentage of fault, and your compensation is adjusted accordingly.
For example:
If you are awarded $100,000 in damages but determined to be 25% at fault, you would still recover $75,000.
The important takeaway? You are not disqualified from compensation simply because you share some responsibility.
Common Scenarios Where Fault May Be Shared
In our experience, some of the most common cases involving partial fault include:
• Distracted driving (texting, phone use, adjusting GPS)
• Driving slightly over the speed limit
• Failing to use turn signals
• Merging without properly checking blind spots
• Delaying a stop at a red light or stop sign
• Having non-functioning brake lights or signal indicators
• Making a last-minute lane change
• Stopping unexpectedly without hazard lights
These types of actions don’t automatically disqualify you from receiving compensation—but insurance companies often try to use them against you. That’s why experienced legal representation matters.
How Fault Is Determined After a Car Accident
When assessing fault, insurers and courts will review multiple forms of evidence, including:
• Police accident reports
• Photographs or video footage from the scene
• Eyewitness statements
• Medical records
• Vehicle damage and repair estimates
• Traffic camera or dashcam footage
• Expert accident reconstruction analysis
At Kari Law Group, we conduct our own thorough investigations and frequently work with leading experts to uncover every fact—especially those the insurance company may overlook or try to minimize.
Why Having an Attorney Is Critical in Partial Fault Cases
The reality is this: insurance companies often overstate your share of fault to reduce the amount they have to pay. Even when you are only slightly responsible, they may try to shift most of the blame onto you to avoid a fair payout.
Our role is to ensure that:
✅ Your liability is accurately assessed
✅ Your side of the story is heard and backed by evidence
✅ You are not pressured into accepting a lowball settlement
✅ You recover the maximum compensation legally available
From the moment you call us, we take control of the legal process—so you can focus on your recovery.
You Deserve to Be Treated Fairly—Let Us Help You Get There
Being in a car accident is difficult enough. Don’t let the fear of partial fault stop you from standing up for your rights. You may be entitled to compensation for:
• Medical expenses
• Lost wages or diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Long-term or permanent injuries
At Kari Law Group, PLLC, we are known for our honesty, our relentless advocacy, and our results. We do not take shortcuts—and we do not settle for less than our clients deserve.
Schedule a Free Consultation Today
If you were involved in an accident and think you may be partially at fault, the smartest next step is to speak to an attorney as soon as possible.
We offer confidential, no-obligation consultations, and we will give you a clear, professional assessment of your case.
📍 Visit Us:
Kari Law Group, PLLC
86-11 Lefferts Blvd, Suite #7
Richmond Hill, NY 11418
📞 Call Today: (718) 395-1818
✉️ Email: info@karilaw.com
