{"id":9732,"date":"2026-08-12T17:23:48","date_gmt":"2026-08-12T17:23:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.lawfirmdavidoff.com\/?page_id=9732"},"modified":"2026-08-12T17:23:58","modified_gmt":"2026-08-12T17:23:58","slug":"mitigate-damages","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.lawfirmdavidoff.com\/es\/resources\/mitigate-damages\/","title":{"rendered":"Mitigate Damages"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">New York expects injured people to take reasonable steps to avoid worsening their injuries. Learn what the duty to mitigate damages means. Call (718) 268-8800.<\/p><div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_85 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">\u00cdndice<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-6a83f63410774\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"ez-toc-cssicon\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Alternar<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #0a0a0a;color:#0a0a0a\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #0a0a0a;color:#0a0a0a\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseprofile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-6a83f63410774\" checked aria-label=\"Alternar\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawfirmdavidoff.com\/es\/resources\/mitigate-damages\/#What_Does_It_Mean_to_Mitigate_Damages\" >What Does It Mean to Mitigate Damages?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawfirmdavidoff.com\/es\/resources\/mitigate-damages\/#Why_Does_Mitigating_Damages_Matter\" >Why Does Mitigating Damages Matter?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawfirmdavidoff.com\/es\/resources\/mitigate-damages\/#How_Can_You_Mitigate_Damages_After_an_Accident\" >How Can You Mitigate Damages After an Accident?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawfirmdavidoff.com\/es\/resources\/mitigate-damages\/#What_Is_NOT_Required_to_Mitigate_Damages\" >What Is NOT Required to Mitigate Damages?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawfirmdavidoff.com\/es\/resources\/mitigate-damages\/#What_Happens_If_You_Fail_to_Mitigate_Damages\" >What Happens If You Fail to Mitigate Damages?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawfirmdavidoff.com\/es\/resources\/mitigate-damages\/#Common_Examples_of_Failure_to_Mitigate_Damages\" >Common Examples of Failure to Mitigate Damages<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawfirmdavidoff.com\/es\/resources\/mitigate-damages\/#Ignoring_Medical_Treatment\" >Ignoring Medical Treatment<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawfirmdavidoff.com\/es\/resources\/mitigate-damages\/#Missing_Medical_Appointments\" >Missing Medical Appointments<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawfirmdavidoff.com\/es\/resources\/mitigate-damages\/#Failing_to_Follow_Medical_Advice\" >Failing to Follow Medical Advice<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawfirmdavidoff.com\/es\/resources\/mitigate-damages\/#Refusing_Reasonable_Medical_Care\" >Refusing Reasonable Medical Care<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawfirmdavidoff.com\/es\/resources\/mitigate-damages\/#Returning_to_Risky_Activities_Too_Soon\" >Returning to Risky Activities Too Soon<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawfirmdavidoff.com\/es\/resources\/mitigate-damages\/#Does_Every_Delay_in_Treatment_Mean_You_Failed_to_Mitigate_Damages\" >Does Every Delay in Treatment Mean You Failed to Mitigate Damages?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawfirmdavidoff.com\/es\/resources\/mitigate-damages\/#Who_Has_the_Burden_of_Proving_Failure_to_Mitigate_Damages\" >Who Has the Burden of Proving Failure to Mitigate Damages?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawfirmdavidoff.com\/es\/resources\/mitigate-damages\/#Can_the_Insurance_Company_Argue_That_I_Failed_to_Mitigate_Damages\" >Can the Insurance Company Argue That I Failed to Mitigate Damages?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawfirmdavidoff.com\/es\/resources\/mitigate-damages\/#Can_You_Still_Recover_Compensation\" >Can You Still Recover Compensation?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawfirmdavidoff.com\/es\/resources\/mitigate-damages\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\" >Preguntas frecuentes (FAQ)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-5' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-5'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-5' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-5'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-5' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-5'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawfirmdavidoff.com\/es\/resources\/mitigate-damages\/#Do_I_have_to_accept_every_medical_treatment_my_doctor_recommends\" >Do I have to accept every medical treatment my doctor recommends?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-5'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawfirmdavidoff.com\/es\/resources\/mitigate-damages\/#Can_missing_one_medical_appointment_hurt_my_case\" >Can missing one medical appointment hurt my case?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-5'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawfirmdavidoff.com\/es\/resources\/mitigate-damages\/#What_if_I_couldnt_afford_medical_treatment\" >What if I couldn't afford medical treatment?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-5'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawfirmdavidoff.com\/es\/resources\/mitigate-damages\/#Can_the_insurance_company_deny_my_claim_because_I_failed_to_mitigate_damages\" >Can the insurance company deny my claim because I failed to mitigate damages?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawfirmdavidoff.com\/es\/resources\/mitigate-damages\/#Contact_Our_Personal_Injury_Lawyer_at_Davidoff_Law_for_a_Free_Consultation\" >Contact Our Personal Injury Lawyer at Davidoff Law for a Free Consultation<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After an accident, the steps you take during your recovery can affect both your health and your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/accident-injury-law\/first-steps-in-personal-injury-claim.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">demanda por da\u00f1os personales<\/a>. New York law generally expects injured people to take reasonable actions to avoid making their injuries worse. This legal principle is known as the duty to mitigate damages.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Understanding what it means can help protect both your recovery and your right to compensation. If you have questions about your claim, contact Davidoff Law at (718) 268-8800 for a free consultation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Does_It_Mean_to_Mitigate_Damages\"><\/span>What Does It Mean to Mitigate Damages?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>To mitigate damages means taking reasonable steps to reduce or prevent additional harm after an injury.<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In a personal injury case, this generally means following appropriate medical advice and making reasonable efforts to recover rather than allowing your condition to worsen unnecessarily.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Mitigating damages does <strong>not<\/strong> mean you must make perfect decisions or undergo every possible medical procedure. Instead, the law generally expects injured victims to act as a reasonable person would under similar circumstances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Examples of mitigating damages include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Seeking medical attention promptly.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Following your doctor's treatment plan.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Attending follow-up appointments.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Taking prescribed medications as directed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Participating in recommended rehabilitation or physical therapy.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keeping records of your treatment and expenses.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Taking these reasonable steps can support both your recovery and your personal injury claim.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Does_Mitigating_Damages_Matter\"><\/span>Why Does Mitigating Damages Matter?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">El <a href=\"https:\/\/www.law.cornell.edu\/wex\/duty_to_mitigate\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">duty to mitigate damages<\/a> can affect the amount of compensation you ultimately recover. If the defendant argues that your injuries became worse because you failed to take reasonable steps after the accident, they may ask the court to reduce the damages awarded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, if an injured person ignores medical treatment and their condition worsens as a result, the defendant may argue they should not be responsible for the additional harm that could reasonably have been avoided.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, simply raising this argument is not enough. Whether mitigation becomes an issue depends on the specific facts of the case and the evidence presented.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Can_You_Mitigate_Damages_After_an_Accident\"><\/span>How Can You Mitigate Damages After an Accident?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Taking reasonable steps after an accident can help protect both your health and your legal claim. While every situation is different, the following actions are generally recommended:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Seek medical attention as soon as possible:<\/strong> Prompt treatment helps identify injuries early and creates medical records connecting them to the accident.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Follow your doctor's recommendations: <\/strong>Following prescribed treatment demonstrates that you are making reasonable efforts to recover.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Attend scheduled medical appointments: <\/strong>Missing appointments without a valid reason may make it more difficult to document your recovery.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Take medications as directed:<\/strong> Following your treatment plan can help prevent complications and support your claim.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Participate in recommended rehabilitation or physical therapy:<\/strong> Completing rehabilitation may improve your recovery while documenting the ongoing effects of your injuries.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Return to work when your doctor says it is safe:<\/strong> Returning too soon can worsen your injuries, while delaying your return without medical justification may raise questions about your damages.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Keep records of your treatment and expenses:<\/strong> Save medical records, bills, receipts, and other documents related to your recovery.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Reasonable efforts, not perfect ones, are what matter. Every recovery is different, and the appropriate course of treatment depends on your specific injuries and your healthcare provider's recommendations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_NOT_Required_to_Mitigate_Damages\"><\/span>What Is NOT Required to Mitigate Damages?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The duty to mitigate damages requires reasonable efforts to support your recovery, not extraordinary ones. You are generally not expected to take actions that are unsafe, excessively expensive, or medically unreasonable simply to reduce another person's liability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, mitigating damages does not necessarily require you to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Undergo every medical procedure your doctor recommends.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Accept treatment that carries significant risks.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Return to work before your doctor says it is safe.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pay for medical care you genuinely cannot afford.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Make perfect decisions throughout your recovery.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether you acted reasonably depends on the specific facts of your case, including your medical condition, financial circumstances, and your healthcare provider's recommendations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Happens_If_You_Fail_to_Mitigate_Damages\"><\/span>What Happens If You Fail to Mitigate Damages?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/accident-injury-law\/injury-damages.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Failing to mitigate damages<\/a> does not automatically prevent you from recovering compensation. However, if a defendant can show that your injuries became worse because you did not take reasonable steps to reduce your losses, the court may limit the damages recoverable for that additional harm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether this applies depends on the circumstances of your case. Courts generally consider whether your actions were reasonable under the circumstances and whether different actions would likely have reduced your damages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>If the insurance company argues that you failed to mitigate your damages, experienced legal representation can make a significant difference. Call Davidoff Law at (718) 268-8800 today for a free consultation.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Common_Examples_of_Failure_to_Mitigate_Damages\"><\/span>Common Examples of Failure to Mitigate Damages<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether someone failed to mitigate damages depends on the specific facts of the case. Simply experiencing ongoing pain or a lengthy recovery does not automatically mean you failed to take reasonable steps after an accident.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ignoring_Medical_Treatment\"><\/span>Ignoring Medical Treatment<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Delaying or completely avoiding medical treatment without a reasonable explanation may allow the defendant to argue that your injuries became more severe than they otherwise would have been.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Missing_Medical_Appointments\"><\/span>Missing Medical Appointments<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Repeatedly missing follow-up appointments or failing to continue recommended treatment may make it more difficult to demonstrate the extent of your injuries and your efforts to recover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Failing_to_Follow_Medical_Advice\"><\/span>Failing to Follow Medical Advice<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If a healthcare provider recommends reasonable treatment, rehabilitation, or activity restrictions, ignoring that advice without a valid reason may become an issue in your claim.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Refusing_Reasonable_Medical_Care\"><\/span>Refusing Reasonable Medical Care<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not every recommended procedure must be accepted. However, refusing reasonable treatment that is likely to improve your condition may affect the compensation available if the refusal unnecessarily worsened your injuries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Returning_to_Risky_Activities_Too_Soon\"><\/span>Returning to Risky Activities Too Soon<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Returning to strenuous work, sports, or other physical activities before your doctor says it is safe may aggravate your injuries. If this results in additional harm, the defendant may argue that those damages could have been avoided.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_Every_Delay_in_Treatment_Mean_You_Failed_to_Mitigate_Damages\"><\/span>Does Every Delay in Treatment Mean You Failed to Mitigate Damages?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. A delay in treatment does not automatically mean you failed to mitigate your damages. There may be legitimate reasons why medical care was delayed, such as difficulty recognizing the seriousness of an injury, limited access to healthcare, or other circumstances beyond your control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The defendant generally must show that the delay was unreasonable and that it caused your injuries to become worse than they otherwise would have been.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Who_Has_the_Burden_of_Proving_Failure_to_Mitigate_Damages\"><\/span>Who Has the Burden of Proving Failure to Mitigate Damages?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The defendant generally has the burden of proving that an injured person failed to mitigate their damages. It is not enough to simply argue that additional treatment could have been obtained.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To support this defense, the defendant may rely on evidence such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Historial m\u00e9dico<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Expert medical testimony<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Treatment histories<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Appointment records<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Employment records, when relevant<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because mitigation often depends on medical evidence, maintaining complete treatment records can help address disputes about your recovery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_the_Insurance_Company_Argue_That_I_Failed_to_Mitigate_Damages\"><\/span>Can the Insurance Company Argue That I Failed to Mitigate Damages?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. Insurance companies sometimes argue that an injured person's actions after an accident increased the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/accident-injury-law\/worksheet-damage-estimate.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">value of the claim<\/a>. They may point to delayed medical treatment, missed appointments, or failure to follow a doctor's recommendations as reasons to dispute part of the damages being claimed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, these arguments do not automatically reduce compensation. The facts of each case matter, and the defendant generally bears the burden of proving that the injured person failed to take reasonable steps to limit their damages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_You_Still_Recover_Compensation\"><\/span>Can You Still Recover Compensation?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. Failing to mitigate damages does not automatically prevent you from recovering compensation for your injuries. Instead, it may reduce the amount of damages awarded if the defendant proves that some of your losses could have been reasonably avoided.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This principle is different from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nolo.com\/legal-encyclopedia\/new-york-slip-and-fall-laws.html?version=variant\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">New York's comparative negligence rule<\/a>. Comparative negligence focuses on your role in causing the accident, while mitigation concerns the reasonable steps you took after the accident to prevent your injuries from becoming worse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\"><\/span>Preguntas frecuentes (FAQ)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-aab-accordion-block aab__accordion_container  accessibilityOn\" style=\"margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:15px;border:1px solid #bcb6b638\" id=\"aab_accordion_42ce207d_0\" role=\"button\" aria-expanded=\"false\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"aab__accordion_head aab_right_icon\" style=\"background-color:#bcb6b638;border-top:none;border-right:none;border-bottom:none;border-left:none\"><div class=\"aab__accordion_heading aab_right_icon aab_right_link\"><div class=\"head_content_wrapper\"><div class=\"title_wrapper\"><h5 class=\"aab__accordion_title\" style=\"margin:0\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_I_have_to_accept_every_medical_treatment_my_doctor_recommends\"><\/span><strong>Do I have to accept every medical treatment my doctor recommends?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h5><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"aab__accordion_icon\" style=\"border:0px solid transparent\"><span class=\"aab__icon dashicons dashicons-plus-alt2\" style=\"font-size:23px\"><\/span><\/div><\/div><div class=\"aab__accordion_body\" role=\"region\" style=\"display:none;border-top:1px solid #bcb6b638;border-right:none;border-bottom:none;border-left:none\"><div class=\"aab__accordion_component\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. The law generally requires reasonable efforts to mitigate damages, not that you undergo every available medical procedure. Whether refusing treatment affects your claim depends on the circumstances.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-aab-accordion-block aab__accordion_container  accessibilityOn\" style=\"margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:15px;border:1px solid #bcb6b638\" id=\"aab_accordion_b35ef634_1\" role=\"button\" aria-expanded=\"false\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"aab__accordion_head aab_right_icon\" style=\"background-color:#bcb6b638;border-top:none;border-right:none;border-bottom:none;border-left:none\"><div class=\"aab__accordion_heading aab_right_icon aab_right_link\"><div class=\"head_content_wrapper\"><div class=\"title_wrapper\"><h5 class=\"aab__accordion_title\" style=\"margin:0\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_missing_one_medical_appointment_hurt_my_case\"><\/span><strong>Can missing one medical appointment hurt my case?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h5><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"aab__accordion_icon\" style=\"border:0px solid transparent\"><span class=\"aab__icon dashicons dashicons-plus-alt2\" style=\"font-size:23px\"><\/span><\/div><\/div><div class=\"aab__accordion_body\" role=\"region\" style=\"display:none;border-top:1px solid #bcb6b638;border-right:none;border-bottom:none;border-left:none\"><div class=\"aab__accordion_component\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not necessarily. Missing a single appointment does not automatically mean you failed to mitigate your damages. However, repeatedly missing treatment without a reasonable explanation could become an issue.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-aab-accordion-block aab__accordion_container  accessibilityOn\" style=\"margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:15px;border:1px solid #bcb6b638\" id=\"aab_accordion_904ee573_2\" role=\"button\" aria-expanded=\"false\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"aab__accordion_head aab_right_icon\" style=\"background-color:#bcb6b638;border-top:none;border-right:none;border-bottom:none;border-left:none\"><div class=\"aab__accordion_heading aab_right_icon aab_right_link\"><div class=\"head_content_wrapper\"><div class=\"title_wrapper\"><h5 class=\"aab__accordion_title\" style=\"margin:0\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_if_I_couldnt_afford_medical_treatment\"><\/span><strong>What if I couldn't afford medical treatment?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h5><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"aab__accordion_icon\" style=\"border:0px solid transparent\"><span class=\"aab__icon dashicons dashicons-plus-alt2\" style=\"font-size:23px\"><\/span><\/div><\/div><div class=\"aab__accordion_body\" role=\"region\" style=\"display:none;border-top:1px solid #bcb6b638;border-right:none;border-bottom:none;border-left:none\"><div class=\"aab__accordion_component\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Courts recognize that financial circumstances may affect a person's ability to obtain treatment. Whether this impacts your claim depends on the specific facts and the evidence available.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-aab-accordion-block aab__accordion_container  accessibilityOn\" style=\"margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:15px;border:1px solid #bcb6b638\" id=\"aab_accordion_8bb0b491_3\" role=\"button\" aria-expanded=\"false\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"aab__accordion_head aab_right_icon\" style=\"background-color:#bcb6b638;border-top:none;border-right:none;border-bottom:none;border-left:none\"><div class=\"aab__accordion_heading aab_right_icon aab_right_link\"><div class=\"head_content_wrapper\"><div class=\"title_wrapper\"><h5 class=\"aab__accordion_title\" style=\"margin:0\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_the_insurance_company_deny_my_claim_because_I_failed_to_mitigate_damages\"><\/span><strong>Can the insurance company deny my claim because I failed to mitigate damages?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h5><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"aab__accordion_icon\" style=\"border:0px solid transparent\"><span class=\"aab__icon dashicons dashicons-plus-alt2\" style=\"font-size:23px\"><\/span><\/div><\/div><div class=\"aab__accordion_body\" role=\"region\" style=\"display:none;border-top:1px solid #bcb6b638;border-right:none;border-bottom:none;border-left:none\"><div class=\"aab__accordion_component\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not necessarily. A failure to mitigate damages does not automatically bar recovery. The insurance company or defendant generally must show that your actions unreasonably increased your damages.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Contact_Our_Personal_Injury_Lawyer_at_Davidoff_Law_for_a_Free_Consultation\"><\/span>Contact Our Personal Injury Lawyer at Davidoff Law for a Free Consultation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Insurance companies often raise mitigation arguments to reduce the value of personal injury claims. Davidoff Law can help protect your rights and pursue the full compensation you deserve. If you have been injured because of someone else's negligence, contact us today at (718) 268-8800 for a free consultation.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our experienced personal injury attorneys can protect your rights and pursue the full compensation available under New York law.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>New York expects injured people to take reasonable steps to avoid worsening their injuries. Learn what the duty to mitigate damages means. Call (718) 268-8800. After an accident, the steps you take during your recovery can affect both your health and your personal injury claim. New York law generally expects injured people to take reasonable [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":8831,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"_ayudawp_aiss_exclude":false,"footnotes":"","_wp_rev_ctl_limit":""},"categories":[],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-9732","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.1 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Mitigate Damages<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Mitigate damages after your injury to protect your settlement. Learn the right steps with help from Davidoff Law Personal Injury Lawyers. 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