Louisiana Jury Instruction 3.1: Life Expectancy In General provides guidance to jurors on how to consider life expectancy when assessing damages in a personal injury or wrongful death case. This instruction assists jurors in understanding the concept of life expectancy and its role in determining compensation for the plaintiff. Life expectancy refers to the average number of years a person can expect to live based on various factors such as age, gender, health conditions, and lifestyle choices. It is an essential factor in evaluating damages as it helps determine the potential loss of future income, medical expenses, and other economic and non-economic damages. The Louisiana jury instruction emphasizes that life expectancy should not be considered as a definite prediction but rather as an estimate based on statistical data. Jurors are instructed to use this estimate to assess the duration of the plaintiff's future economic loss and the impact on their quality of life. Different types of Louisiana Jury Instruction 3.1 — Life Expectancy In General may include: 1. Louisiana Jury Instruction 3.1(a) — Calculation of Life Expectancy: This instruction provides jurors with guidelines on how to calculate life expectancy based on available statistical data and factors specific to the plaintiff's case, such as pre-existing conditions or occupation. Jurors are advised to consider expert testimony and medical records to arrive at an accurate estimate. 2. Louisiana Jury Instruction 3.1(b) — Impact on Economic Damages: This instruction educates jurors on how life expectancy influences the calculation of economic damages. They are instructed to consider the potential loss of future earnings, medical treatment costs, and other financial losses based on the plaintiff's expected lifespan. 3. Louisiana Jury Instruction 3.1(c) — Impact on Non-economic Damages: This instruction highlights the role of life expectancy in assessing non-economic damages, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of companionship, and loss of enjoyment of life. Jurors are directed to evaluate the duration and quality of life the plaintiff is expected to experience to determine appropriate compensation. Overall, Louisiana Jury Instruction 3.1 — Life Expectancy In General aims to provide jurors with a clear understanding of life expectancy and its significance in evaluating damages. By considering this instruction, jurors can make informed decisions based on the evidence presented and contribute to a fair and just resolution in personal injury and wrongful death cases in Louisiana courts.