Comparative Negligence in Connecticut
State-specific overview · Tort Law
Connecticut uses pure comparative negligence with no bar to recovery based on plaintiff's fault percentage.
How Connecticut treats Comparative Negligence
Connecticut permits plaintiffs to recover damages reduced by their own percentage of negligence, even if they bear the majority of fault. Under Connecticut law, a plaintiff 80% at fault can recover 20% of damages from a defendant. The state's pure comparative negligence system does not impose a threshold that would completely bar recovery, making it one of the most plaintiff-friendly jurisdictions on this issue.
The general definition of Comparative Negligence
A rule that reduces damages based on the victim's own percentage of fault.
Comparative negligence is a legal principle that recognizes both parties in an accident may share responsibility. Instead of an all-or-nothing approach, the court or jury determines what percentage each person is at fault. Your damages award is then reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you're 20% at fault and awarded $100,000, you receive $80,000. Some states use 'pure' comparative negligence (you can recover even if you're 99% at fault), while others use 'modified' comparative negligence (you can only recover if you're less than 50% or 51% at fault, depending on the state).
Read the full Comparative Negligence entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Connecticut.