In a jury trial jury instructions are given to the jury at the end of the case. These instructions are prepared by the attorneys of both parties and presented to the judge for approval. The instructions tell the jurors what the law is and how to apply the law to the facts that have been proven.
Minnesota Instruction to Jury — Essential Factual Elements Necessary to Hold an Instructor, Trainer, or Coach Liable for an Injury to a Participant in a Sports Activity In Minnesota, there are specific sets of instructions to the jury that establish the essential factual elements required to hold an instructor, trainer, or coach liable for injuries sustained by a participant in a sports activity. These instructions provide guidance to determine whether the defendant can be held responsible for the harm caused. Let's dive into the key elements necessary to establish liability: 1. Duty of Care: The first essential element is to establish that the instructor, trainer, or coach owed a duty of care to the participant. This duty arises from a legal obligation to provide a reasonably safe sports environment, instruction, or training to the participant. 2. Breach of Duty: The plaintiff must demonstrate that the instructor, trainer, or coach breached their duty of care. It must be proven that the defendant failed to meet the reasonable standard of care that is expected in the circumstances. This breach could manifest as negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct. 3. Foreseeability: There must be a demonstration that the defendant reasonably should have foreseen the potential risks and dangers associated with the particular sports activity. This element shows that the defendant had notice or knowledge of the risks involved. 4. Causation: The plaintiff needs to establish a causal connection between the instructor, trainer, or coach's breach of duty and the participant's injury. It must be proven that the injury was a direct result of the defendant's actions or failure to act. 5. Actual Harm or Injury: The participant must have suffered harm or injury as a result of the defendant's breach of duty. This harm could include physical injuries, emotional distress, financial loss, or any other recognizable damage. It is important to note that different types of sports activities may have specific additional elements or considerations when determining liability. For example, if the sports activity involves high contact or inherent risks, the standard of care may differ from less physically demanding activities. In conclusion, to hold an instructor, trainer, or coach liable for an injury to a participant in a sports activity in Minnesota, it is necessary to demonstrate the essential factual elements of duty of care, breach of duty, foreseeability, causation, and actual harm. These elements ensure that the defendant's actions or omissions are evaluated to determine whether they should be held responsible for the participant's injury.
