Can I Still Claim Compensation if I Was Partially at Fault?
The simple answer is yes. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence or breach of duty — even if you also contributed to the incident — you may still be entitled to claim compensation. This legal concept is known as contributory negligence.
In short, you can still claim, but the amount of compensation awarded may be reduced based on your level of responsibility. For example, if it’s agreed that you were 50% at fault, your final compensation award would be reduced by half. The key is to understand that your actions don’t have to be perfect to pursue justice and financial support.
Watch our short video on contributory negligence here
Common Examples of Contributory Negligence
This principle arises more frequently than many people realise, especially in the following types of personal injury cases:
Road Traffic Accidents
A typical scenario involves a driver or passenger not wearing a seatbelt during a crash. If another motorist was at fault, you can still claim. However, if wearing a seatbelt would likely have reduced your injuries, your compensation may be reduced. Learn more about your rights on our Road Traffic Accident Claims page.
Accidents at Work
In workplace settings, contributory negligence can arise when an employee notices a safety issue — such as faulty machinery — but continues working without reporting it. While the employer has a duty to provide a safe environment, the employee may be considered partly responsible for not taking action to avoid harm. For more support, visit our Accidents at Work page.
Medical Negligence
In some clinical scenarios, patients may also be seen as having a role in the outcome — for example, if medical advice was not followed. Nonetheless, this doesn’t absolve the medical professional from liability. If negligence occurred, you may still have a strong case. Learn more about our Medical Negligence Claims service.
How Stonehewer Moss Can Help
We are APIL-accredited personal injury solicitors with decades of experience in handling complex claims — including those involving contributory negligence. Upon accepting your case, we will arrange an independent medical examination to assess the full extent of your injuries and any long-term impact.
Our team will also collect evidence, build a strong legal argument, and negotiate with the other party to ensure liability is fairly apportioned. This can reduce how much responsibility you bear and maximise your final compensation award.
We manage most claims on a No Win No Fee basis — so there’s no financial risk to you.
Watch this short video to learn more about No Win No Fee claims
Speak to a Personal Injury Specialist Today
Call us on freephone 0800 434 6544 or 01606 87 22 00. You can also start your claim online and we’ll be in touch to discuss your situation.