Wisconsin Jury Instruction 6.6.1 General Instruction — Comparative Negligence Defense is a crucial part of the state's legal system. It provides guidance to juries during civil trials when determining liability in cases involving multiple parties. Comparative negligence refers to the legal concept that assigns responsibility for damages based on each party's level of fault or negligence. It allows the jury to apportion liability accordingly, rather than holding one party solely responsible. This Wisconsin jury instruction ensures that the jury comprehends the principles of comparative negligence and its application in civil cases. By providing clear instructions, it aids jurors in understanding their role in determining the degree of fault for each party involved. The instruction may cover various scenarios, depending on the specifics of the case. Different variations of Wisconsin Jury Instruction 6.6.1 relating to comparative negligence defense may include: 1. Wisconsin Jury Instruction 6.6.1a — Pure Comparative Fault: This version instructs the jury to determine the percentage of fault for each party involved and allocates damages accordingly. Even if one party is predominantly at fault, the other party's negligence may still factor into the final apportionment. 2. Wisconsin Jury Instruction 6.6.1b — Modified Comparative Fault (50% Bar): In this instruction, the jury is guided on allocating fault and damages. However, if one party's negligence exceeds 50%, they may be barred from recovering any damages. 3. Wisconsin Jury Instruction 6.6.1c — Modified Comparative Fault (51% Bar): Similar to 6.6.1b, this instruction applies the same principles, but with a slight difference in the threshold. If the plaintiff's negligence exceeds 51%, they may be barred from recovering any damages. Wisconsin Jury Instruction 6.6.1 plays a vital role in ensuring fair and just outcomes in civil cases by considering the contributions of all parties involved. This instruction empowers the jury to make informed decisions regarding fault allocation, fostering a more equitable legal system for all parties concerned.