Iowa · Comparative Negligence

Iowa Comparative Negligence Rule

Iowa follows a modified 51% bar rule under Iowa Code § 668.3. Recovery is allowed when the claimant's share of fault is 50% or less, and barred when it exceeds that threshold.

Updated 2026-05-22 · See all 50 states

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Key facts: Iowa

Rule type: Modified 51% bar
Max fault to recover: 50%
How recovery works: Recovery is allowed when the claimant's share of fault is 50% or less, and barred when it exceeds that threshold.
Last verified: 2026-05-22
Source type: Primary (state statute)

Details for Iowa

Modified comparative fault with a 51% bar; the plaintiff is barred only when fault is "greater than" the combined fault of defendants and released parties.

Related: Iowa statute of limitations

Iowa gives you 2 years to file a personal injury lawsuit under Iowa Code § 614.1(2).

See the full Iowa statute of limitations →

This page is informational and does not constitute legal advice. Some categories (medical negligence, governmental defendants) follow different rules. Confirm the controlling rule with a licensed Iowa attorney before relying on it.

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Iowa Comparative Negligence FAQ

What comparative negligence rule does Iowa follow?

Iowa follows a modified 51% bar rule under Iowa Code § 668.3. Claimant barred when fault is greater than 50% (the 51% rule). Recovery is allowed when the claimant's share of fault is 50% or less, and barred when it exceeds that threshold.

Can I still recover if I was partly at fault for the accident in Iowa?

Yes, up to a point. In Iowa you can recover when your share of fault is 50% or less. Once you cross that threshold, you are barred from recovering anything at all.

How does this affect settlement negotiations in Iowa?

Insurance adjusters argue percentage of fault to reduce what they pay. Because Iowa bars recovery once fault exceeds 50%, even a small dispute about percentage can swing settlement value dramatically. Crossing the bar means zero recovery.

What is the personal injury statute of limitations in Iowa?

Iowa gives you 2 years to file a personal injury lawsuit under Iowa Code § 614.1(2).

Where can I read the actual rule?

The controlling authority is Iowa Code § 668.3. The full text is available at https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/668.3.pdf.

See comparative negligence rules for all 51 covered states

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