COVID-19 exposure has led to a litany of serious health issues and tens of thousands of deaths. Though everyone’s health is top priority, afflicted individuals and family members of those who have been lost might wonder what type of claims can be brought in relation to coronavirus infections. Though each case is unique and it could be difficult to establish liability for such an unforeseen event, we could see a surge in product liability, medical malpractice and fraudulent marketing lawsuits once courts open and victims learn about their legal options.
An experienced personal injury attorney can listen to what happened in your case and assess if you have an actionable claim in one of the following areas:
- Products liability — Products liability claims arise when a company makes or sells a defective product that directly causes an injury. COVID-19 related products liability claims could allege that medical or safety equipment did not work properly. These cases might target major manufacturers or small online retailers. However, your ability to collect compensation will vary widely depending on the particular defendant.
- Medical malpractice — Medical malpractice claims arise when a healthcare provider harms a patient by failing to follow professional standards. In a fast-moving situation such as the coronavirus pandemic, establishing what a doctor, nurse or hospital should have done might be difficult. Some medical providers are already seeking legislation to protect them against coronavirus-related lawsuits, but if you believe you have a potential claim, a lawyer can consult with relevant experts to evaluate the likelihood of a favorable result.
- Premises liability — Premises liability claims arise when guests are owed a duty of reasonable care by business or individual who is responsible for the safety of a property. A store that fails to follow reasonable safety measures might be held accountable if someone is infected by COVID-19 exposure on their premises.
Personal injury claims stemming from COVID-19 should become commonplace once the extent of the damage becomes clearer. It is important to stay vigilant in your safe practices, which include carefully choosing where you go and what products you use to protect you and your loved ones. If you think you have been exposed to coronavirus because of the negligent actions of another, then it is important to speak to an experienced personal injury attorney immediately.
Contact a personal injury lawyer for a consultation about your potential case
Lipscomb, Johnson, Sleister Dailey & Smith, LLP advocates on behalf of clients in all types of personal injury litigation. To schedule an appointment regarding your legal options, please call (770) 637-4741 or contact the firm online to speak with a qualified attorney about your concerns.