The Wake North Carolina Jury Instruction — 1.3 Duty to Mitigate in General Pursuing Medical Care is a crucial aspect of personal injury cases in the state. It guides jurors on the responsibility of the injured party to take reasonable steps to minimize their damages by seeking appropriate medical care. When a plaintiff in a personal injury case fails to mitigate their damages, it can negatively impact their compensation claim. This instruction highlights the significance of the injured party's duty to pursue medical care and the consequences that may arise if they fail to do so. In personal injury cases, there are various types of situations where the duty to mitigate arises. Some specific types of Wake North Carolina Jury Instruction — 1.3 Duty to Mitigate in General Pursuing Medical Care include: 1. Failure to seek initial medical care: This instruction applies when the plaintiff neglects to obtain prompt medical attention following the accident or incident. It emphasizes the importance of seeking immediate medical care to prevent exacerbation or delayed diagnosis of injuries. 2. Failure to adhere to medical treatment: This instruction comes into play when the injured party does not follow the treatment plan recommended by their healthcare provider. It emphasizes the need for compliance with medical advice, including attending follow-up appointments, completing prescribed therapy programs, and taking medications as directed. 3. Failure to mitigate damages: This instruction is pertinent when the plaintiff fails to take reasonable actions to minimize their injuries or losses. It highlights the injured party's duty to actively seek appropriate medical care, explore available treatment options, and receive consultations from specialists when necessary. 4. Failure to seek a second opinion: This instruction can be relevant if the plaintiff does not obtain a second opinion when recommended by their treating physician or when there is uncertainty regarding diagnosis or treatment options. It stresses the importance of exploring all reasonable avenues for medical advice to ensure proper care and mitigate damages. The Wake North Carolina Jury Instruction — 1.3 Duty to Mitigate in General Pursuing Medical Care helps jurors understand the significance of the injured party's obligation to mitigate damages through the pursuit of adequate medical care. By naming different types of situations where this duty arises, it provides a comprehensive guideline for jurors to consider when assessing the injured party's claim for damages in personal injury cases.