Alaska Jury Instruction — 1.3 Duty To Mitigate In General Pursuing Medical Care: In Alaska, the jury instruction 1.3 addresses the duty to mitigate in the context of pursuing medical care. This instruction guides the jury in understanding the legal obligation of plaintiffs in a personal injury or medical malpractice case to take reasonable steps to minimize or mitigate their damages through seeking proper medical treatment. The duty to mitigate is an important aspect of personal injury law ensuring that injured parties do not unnecessarily escalate the extent of their damages or prolong the recovery process by failing to seek appropriate medical care. By instructing the jury on this duty, the court aims to expound how the injured party's actions, specifically those related to pursuing medical care, can impact their claim for damages. This instruction helps the jury comprehend that the plaintiff has a responsibility to mitigate their damages by seeking medical attention reasonably expected of an ordinary person in a similar situation. The duty to mitigate entails taking actions that a reasonable person should take to restore their health and minimize the negative consequences of the defendant's actions or negligence. Types of Alaska Jury Instruction — 1.3 Duty To Mitigate In General Pursuing Medical Care: 1. Duty to Seek Reasonable Medical Care: This specific type of jury instruction highlights the importance of the plaintiff seeking appropriate medical attention to address their injuries. It emphasizes that the plaintiff has a duty to take reasonable steps to find competent medical professionals and follow their recommended course of treatment. 2. Compliance with Treatment: This aspect of the instruction focuses on the plaintiff's obligation to follow the prescribed medical treatment diligently. It asserts that the injured party must demonstrate a reasonable level of commitment to their recovery by attending appointments, undergoing necessary procedures, and adhering to the healthcare provider's instructions. 3. Reasonable Efforts to Expedite Recovery: This component emphasizes that injured parties have an obligation to make reasonable efforts to expedite their recovery process and/or minimize the worsening of their condition. It addresses situations where necessary medical interventions or proactive measures could potentially enhance the plaintiff's recovery or prevent further harm. It is imperative for the jury to understand the duty to mitigate, specifically in relation to pursuing medical care, as it helps determine the extent to which the plaintiff may be entitled to compensation. By considering the plaintiff's compliance with medical recommendations, the jury can properly assess the damages resulting from the defendant's actions while acknowledging the plaintiff's responsibility to mitigate their own losses.