Understanding the Modified Comparative Fault Rule

In Texas, the modified comparative 50/50 rule can mean the difference between recovering compensation or walking away with nothing. This legal standard allows injured individuals to collect damages if they’re found 50% or less at fault—but their payout is reduced by their share of responsibility. At 51% or more, they’re legally barred from any recovery.

A single percentage point can make or break your case. That’s why it’s critical to understand your rights and protect them. At Anderson, Cummings & Drawhorn, we build strong cases, challenge unfair fault claims, and fight to keep every percent working in your favor.

Modified Comparative Negligence

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system under Chapter 33 of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code. This legal rule allows someone injured in an accident to receive compensation even if they share some of the blame. The payout is reduced based on the injured person’s percentage of fault.

Say damages total $100,000 and the injured party is 20% at fault—they would receive $80,000. This system holds each party financially responsible for their share in causing the injury.

When multiple people are involved or fault is disputed, things can get tricky. Insurance companies often push back hard. That’s where a personal injury lawyer steps in—to protect your interests and pursue the strongest possible outcome.

The “51% Bar”

The “51% bar” is a critical component of Texas’ modified comparative negligence rule. It stipulates that a claimant cannot recover damages if they are found to be 51% or more at fault for the incident. In other words, if you are equally or less at fault (50% or less), you still have the legal right to recover damages.

This creates a high-stakes threshold for injured individuals: a single percentage point can mean the difference between receiving financial support or walking away with nothing.

Example

Imagine driving through Fort Worth during rush hour. You’re moving through a green light when another driver runs a red and T-bones your car. You’re seriously injured, and damages total $120,000. But the insurance company claims you were slightly speeding, assigning 25% of the fault.

Under Texas’ modified comparative negligence rule, your compensation would be reduced by that 25%, leaving you with $90,000. If investigators found you 51% at fault—due to something like distracted driving—you’d recover nothing. That’s why every detail matters, and why having the right personal injury lawyer truly counts.

Proportionate Responsibility

Under Texas law, this framework is officially referred to as “proportionate responsibility.” As outlined in Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code Section 33.001, the statute makes it clear: if a claimant’s percentage of responsibility exceeds 50%, they are barred from recovering damages.

The proportionate responsibility system is designed to distribute financial liability fairly across all responsible parties. It’s particularly useful in multi-vehicle crashes or premises liability cases, where several contributors may be at fault. Each individual or entity is held accountable in proportion to their degree of negligence.

This nuanced legal rule means we must thoroughly investigate and present evidence that accurately reflects your level of involvement—or lack thereof—in the accident. Our role as your personal injury lawyer is to challenge any unfair fault allocation and maximize your potential compensation.

No-Fault vs. At-Fault

Texas is an at-fault state, meaning the person who causes an accident is responsible for paying damages. This contrasts with “no-fault” states, where your own insurance covers medical expenses regardless of fault.

In an at-fault system like Texas, injured parties must seek compensation from the liable party’s insurance or file a lawsuit. This process follows the modified comparative negligence rule. If the other driver is mostly at fault and you’re under the 51% threshold, you can recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

That’s why legal representation is so important. Insurance companies aren’t quick to pay claims—and often try to shift more blame onto you. We make it our mission to ensure your voice is heard, your case is strong, and your rights are protected.

Need Help After an Injury? Talk to a Personal Injury Lawyer Today

Fault under Texas’ modified comparative 50/50 rule can be complex—especially when your ability to recover compensation hangs in the balance. When every percentage point counts, the right legal team matters.

At Anderson, Cummings & Drawhorn, we build strong cases, challenge unfair blame, and negotiate directly with insurers. If needed, we’re fully prepared to take your case to court.

Call 817-920-9000 today for a free consultation. We’re here to protect your rights—and every percentage point that matters.

If you lost a loved one or suffered severe injuries after an accident in Dallas, Fort Worth or Arlington, our lawyers are ready to help. Call (817) 920-9000 or fill out our Free Case Evaluation form now.