Minnesota Jury Instruction — 1.3 Duty To Mitigate In General Pursuing Medical Care is a legal concept that focuses on the responsibility of individuals to take reasonable steps to minimize the harm caused by their injuries or illnesses. This duty applies specifically to plaintiffs who are pursuing medical care as part of their personal injury claims or other legal cases. In the context of personal injury law, the duty to mitigate refers to the obligation of individuals to seek appropriate medical treatment and follow medical advice to the best of their ability. Failure to fulfill this duty may result in a reduction of damages awarded by a jury, as the defendant may argue that the plaintiff could have lessened the extent of their injuries or illnesses with proper care. Medical care providers play a crucial role in helping individuals fulfill their duty to mitigate. They offer professional advice, diagnosis, and treatment options based on their expertise. By adhering to the prescribed treatment plan and attending follow-up appointments, plaintiffs demonstrate their commitment to mitigating the damages caused by their injuries or illnesses. When determining whether a plaintiff fulfilled their duty to mitigate, juries consider the reasonableness of the actions taken by the injured party. This includes evaluating factors such as the severity of the injuries or illnesses, financial constraints, access to medical care, and any challenges faced during the recovery process. Juries will examine whether the plaintiff acted in a manner that an ordinary person would under similar circumstances. Despite the general nature of the duty to mitigate in pursuing medical care, there are specific instances where variations of this instruction may apply: 1. Duty to Mitigate Lost Earnings: In cases where individuals' injuries or illnesses prevent them from working, a duty to mitigate lost earnings may arise. Plaintiffs are expected to make reasonable efforts to find alternative employment or undergo vocational rehabilitation if necessary. 2. Duty to Mitigate Property Damage: If the injuries or illnesses sustained by the plaintiff also resulted in damage to their property, a duty to mitigate property damage may be established. In such cases, plaintiffs are responsible for taking measures to minimize the harm to their property and prevent further loss. 3. Duty to Mitigate Emotional Distress: In some cases, plaintiffs may claim emotional distress as part of their legal action. The duty to mitigate emotional distress entails seeking appropriate counseling or therapy, participating in support groups, or engaging in other activities that promote healing and emotional well-being. In conclusion, Minnesota Jury Instruction — 1.3 Duty To Mitigate In General Pursuing Medical Care is a legal principle that emphasizes the obligation of injured parties to pursue reasonable medical care and take steps to minimize the damages caused by their injuries or illnesses. By adhering to this duty, individuals increase the likelihood of receiving fair compensation for their losses in a legal case.