Most people assume that if they were even a little bit at fault for an accident… they can’t recover anything.

That’s not true.

In Arizona, you can still recover compensation even if you were partially responsible for the accident. But there’s a catch—and it directly affects how much you get paid.

Let’s break it down.

Arizona Uses a “Comparative Negligence” Rule

Arizona follows something called pure comparative negligence.

What this means is simple:

You can recover money for your injuries
Even if you were partly at fault
But your compensation gets reduced based on your percentage of fault

Example:

Let’s say your total damages are $100,000

• You are found 20% at fault
• The other driver is 80% at fault

You can still recover:

$80,000

Now let’s say you were 60% at fault

You can still recover $40,000

Why Fault Percentage Matters More Than You Think

This is where things get serious.

Insurance companies know that every percentage point matters.

Because the more fault they place on you…
the less they have to pay.

So what do they do?

They try to:

• Shift blame onto you
• Twist statements
• Use small details against you
• Downplay the other driver’s responsibility

Even something simple like saying “I didn’t see them” can be used to increase your percentage of fault.

Common Situations Where Fault Is Shared

You might be partially at fault if:

• You were speeding slightly
• You didn’t signal properly
• You were distracted
• You made a rolling stop
• You were driving in poor conditions

But here’s the key:

Being partially at fault does NOT mean you lose your case

How Fault Is Determined

Fault is usually decided based on:

• Police reports
• Witness statements
• Photos and video footage
• Vehicle damage
• Expert analysis

The stronger the evidence, the harder it is for insurance companies to manipulate the outcome.

The Real Risk: Accepting Fault Too Early

One of the biggest mistakes people make after an accident is admitting fault too soon.

Right after an accident, you don’t have all the facts.

But if you say something like:

• “That was my fault”
• “I’m sorry”
• “I didn’t see you”

That statement can follow you through the entire claim.

And it can cost you thousands.

How to Protect Your Case

If you’ve been in an accident in Arizona, here’s what actually helps protect your claim:

• Get medical attention immediately
• Document everything (photos, videos, details)
• Avoid giving recorded statements too early
• Don’t discuss fault at the scene
• Speak with an attorney before accepting any settlement

Don’t Let Insurance Decide Your Percentage of Fault

Here’s the reality:

Insurance companies are not trying to be fair.

They are trying to pay as little as possible.

And in a comparative negligence state like Arizona, the easiest way to do that is by increasing your percentage of fault.

At Ruben Law Group, we focus on building strong cases that clearly show what happened—and who is actually responsible.

Speak With an Arizona Injury Attorney Today

If you were involved in an accident and think you may be partially at fault, don’t assume you don’t have a case.

You may still be entitled to compensation.

Contact Ruben Law Group today to discuss your situation and understand your options.