Posted January 11, 2021
When COVID-19 first made its way into the United States, lawyers across the country prepared to be bombarded with virus-related litigation throughout 2020. Now, almost a month into 2021, coronavirus lawsuits have continued to be limited.
In a review by Law.com, it was found that lawsuits related to COVID-19 had actually declined in August and again in November. While many cases were filed, a majority had been dismissed by judges. In the Torts Litigation Report by Lex Machina, it was found that “Out of the 173 torts cases caused by COVID-19 filed through 2020 Q (quarter) 3, most are negligence cases against cruise lines.”
Other studies have concluded that the bulk of cases filed throughout the country in the last year were by restaurants, bars, and businesses against their insurance firms and agencies after state/local governments mandated shutdowns to slow the spread of COVID-19.
However, lawyers are gearing up for a wave of coronavirus lawsuits specifically in employment law as wage and hour cases have already emerged, as well as disability and leave accommodations.
In a lawsuit tracker created by Jackson Lewis, the following data was found for employment law related complaints.
- In total, there have been 1,303 employment-related lawsuits filed with Jackson Lewis.
- Of those, the majority fell into disability, leave, and accommodation complaints; discrimination and harassment; retaliation/whistleblower; and workplace safety and conditions.
- By industry, most complaints came from those in healthcare, manufacturing, and retail.
While this is 2020 data, lawyers are now preparing for a wave of class-action lawsuits for mandated return dates to physical work locations and employment policies which make the COVID-19 vaccine mandatory.
2021 has only just begun. But COVID-19 has not gone away. If you have a COVID-19 related lawsuit, you need legal guidance–we can help.
COVID-19 Lawsuits: Legal Steps
If you believe you have been a victim of a crime in the workplace, medical facility, etc., you need to take legal action as the courts are expected to become overcrowded with coronavirus-related lawsuits.
It is important to file complaints with internal systems (HR, hospital administration, etc.). Should the issue not be handled, you will need a lawyer.
Contact the COVID-19 Personal Injury Lawyers TODAY
We know that now more than ever, you want to be present for your loved ones and to be able to provide for them, whether it is emotional comfort or to financially support them. But when at-risk groups and families are being neglected, legal action must occur.
You may feel like you have lost your voice. Let us help you be your voice in this uneasy time.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
Posted in COVID-19.