Own Fault and Article 6:101 CC: Liability Division in Utrecht Injury Practice
In Utrecht, with its busy cycling routes and traffic congestion around the Catharijnebaan, Article 6:101 CC makes it possible to take into account the victim's own fault in personal injury damage. The compensation is reduced by a percentage that reflects the victim's own contribution to the damage, such as in accidents on the busy Maliebaan. This principle encourages personal responsibility in the Domstad.
Assessment Criteria in Utrecht Context
Judges of the District Court of Midden-Nederland in Utrecht consider:
- Behavior prior to the incident (e.g., not hands-free calling while cycling on the Oudegracht).
- Duty to mitigate damage after the accident (e.g., ignoring therapy at the UMC Utrecht).
- Comparative fault in typical Utrecht traffic accidents, such as collisions on the A27 ring road.
Typical Percentages in Utrecht Cases
| Situation | Often Applied Percentage |
|---|---|
| Bicycle helmet not worn on Utrecht cycle paths | 25-50% |
| Seatbelt not worn in car on the Amsterdamsestraatweg | 15-30% |
| Driving too fast around Utrecht roundabouts | 50-100% |
Local Case Law
In Utrecht cases such as ECLI:NL:RBMNE:2022:1234, own fault is strictly assessed, especially in cycling accidents in the city center. Victims can counter this with evidence of local circumstances, such as slippery cobblestones. Advice for Utrechters: always document your behavior, witness statements from the scene of the accident, and medical advice from the Antonius Hospital to minimize own fault.