The COVID-19 global pandemic has impacted the economy and affected people’s daily lives. To stop the novel coronavirus from spreading, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other organizations have put restrictions and guidelines in place. If you took the appropriate precautions but were infected due to others’ actions, speak to an attorney. To help determine whether you have grounds for legal recourse, below is a brief overview of the rules and potential consequences for not following them.

Rules Set by the CDC

The CDC advises individuals to wash hands with soap frequently, keep the mouth covered when out and about, and clean and disinfect often-touched objects and surfaces. The American Hospital Association (AHA) and the American Nurses Association (ANA) are also encouraging social distancing and sheltering to curb a spike in confirmed COVID-19 cases in the U.S.

In the workplace, those who interact with the general public are most at risk of exposure to the coronavirus, including medical professionals and support staff. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) encourages social distancing, altering work shifts, or conducting business remotely to minimize exposure. In jobs with medium and high risks of exposure, employers should also install sneeze guards and other physical barriers in the workplace; provide face masks for employees; and keep personnel abreast of federal, state, and local recommendations.

Understanding Legal Options

Depending on how you were infected with COVID-19, it’s worth talking to an attorney about legal recourse. If you contracted the virus in the workplace, a hospital, a cruise ship, or another facility, personal injury lawyers can investigate the specific circumstances of your case and determine whether reasonable measures were not taken to prevent the virus from spreading. If multiple people were infected, an attorney can look into whether a class action lawsuit can be filed. Shareholders can also consider suing businesses that ignored the recommendations.

If you were infected with COVID-19, contact Michael D. Doyle, Attorney at Law. Based in Elyria, OH, and serving clients in Lorain and Cuyahoga counties as well as the surrounding communities, this attorney has been practicing law for over 25 years. He will discuss the legalities involved with the pandemic and what you might be able to do to recover financially. For a free initial consultation, call (440) 323-0001. Learn more about personal injury cases the attorney handles online.