Chicago Illinois Jury Instruction — 6.6.1 GeneraInstructionio— - Comparative Negligence Defense is a crucial component of the legal framework in Chicago, Illinois. This instruction provides guidance to the jury when determining liability and damages in civil cases involving multiple parties who share some degree of negligence. Comparative negligence is a legal doctrine that aims to distribute the responsibility for an accident or injury proportionately among all parties involved. Under this defense, the injured party's damages are reduced by a percentage equivalent to their own contributory negligence. This instruction serves as a guideline for the jury to evaluate the evidence presented and assign appropriate fault and damages. The comparative negligence defense provides a fair and balanced approach to allocating fault in personal injury cases. The instruction instructs the jury to consider the evidence and weigh the respective negligence of both the plaintiff and the defendant(s). By doing so, the jury can determine the extent to which each party's actions contributed to the injury or damages in question. There are different types of Chicago Illinois Jury Instruction — 6.6.1 GeneraInstructionio— - Comparative Negligence Defense, including: 1. Pure Comparative Negligence: This approach allows the injured party to recover damages even if they are found to be primarily at fault. The damages awarded are reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to the injured party. For example, if the injured party is found to be 60% at fault, their damages will be reduced by 60%. 2. Modified Comparative Negligence (50% Bar Rule): Under this rule, the injured party can only recover damages if they are found to be less than 50% at fault. If the injured party is deemed more than 50% responsible, they are barred from recovering any damages. 3. Modified Comparative Negligence (51% Bar Rule): Similar to the 50% Bar Rule, under this rule, the injured party can only recover damages if they are found to be less than 51% at fault. If the injured party's fault is determined to be 51% or more, they are barred from recovering any damages. It is important for the jury to carefully consider the evidence, witness testimonies, and expert opinions when applying the comparative negligence defense. This instruction allows for a fair determination of liability and ensures that all parties involved are held accountable based on their respective level of negligence. By following this instruction, the jury can contribute to a just and equitable resolution in civil cases related to personal injuries in Chicago, Illinois.