A driver’s liability for a car accident in California is determined by negligence, which is the failure to exercise reasonable care, leading to harm to others. Liability means that a person’s negligence caused or contributed to injury to another person. California uses a comparative fault system, where each party is assigned a percentage of fault. Even if you are partially responsible, you can be compensated but it will be adjusted based on your level of responsibility. Proving driver responsibility includes duty of care, breach of duty (like speeding or distracted driving), the link to the accident, and actual damages (property damage, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering).