Puerto Rico Jury Instruction — 7.7.1 GeneraInstructionio— - Comparative Negligence Defense serves as a crucial guideline for judges to provide instructions to juries in civil cases where comparative negligence is raised as a defense. Comparative negligence refers to the legal principle that assigns responsibility and compensatory damages to each party involved in an accident, based on their respective degrees of negligence or fault. This instruction clarifies the concept of comparative negligence to ensure the jury understands its application in determining liability. It explains that if the plaintiff is found to be partially responsible for their own injuries, their potential damages will be reduced proportionally. The instruction outlines the fundamental elements required to establish a comparative negligence defense, assisting the jury in making fair and informed decisions. Some essential aspects covered by this instruction include emphasizing the need for careful examination of the evidence related to negligence, assessing the degree of fault assigned to each party involved, and understanding the role of the jury in determining the final apportionment of damages. By giving appropriate weight to the evidence presented, the goal is to prevent bias and ensure a just outcome. Different types of Puerto Rico Jury Instruction — 7.7.1 GeneraInstructionio— - Comparative Negligence Defense may include: 1. Basic Comparative Negligence: This type of instruction encompasses the fundamental principles of comparative negligence, educating the jury about assigning fault and reducing damages accordingly. 2. Modified Comparative Negligence: In some jurisdictions, Puerto Rico may have its own unique approach to modified comparative negligence. This instruction would explain specific rules or limitations in allocating fault and determining damages when both parties bear some responsibility for the accident or injury. 3. Pure Comparative Negligence: This type of comparative negligence defense enables the injured party to recover damages even if they were predominantly at fault. The instruction would explain how damages are calculated based on the degree of fault assigned to each party involved. 4. Joint Comparative Negligence: This instruction is applied in cases where multiple parties are found responsible for the plaintiff's injuries. It instructs the jury on how to allocate the fault and determine the proportionate damages each party should contribute. By carefully instructing the jury on the principles of comparative negligence and its various types, the Puerto Rico legal system aims to ensure fairness and justice in civil cases. These instructions not only promote a better understanding of the law among jurors but also guide their decision-making process when determining liability and damages.