Since lockdowns have lifted across the country and capacity restrictions have begun to loosen, shops, restaurants and other businesses have been eager to get patrons through the doors, hoping to make up for months of lost revenue.
But operating at increased capacity also increases exposure to COVID-19 liability claims.
Individuals who get sick from the virus may seek to recoup damages from businesses they frequented around the time they were likely exposed, alleging those businesses were negligent in their duty to provide safe conditions for customers.
In the case of Rumrill v. Princess Cruise Lines Ltd., for example, a couple who contracted the coronavirus claimed they were exposed aboard one of Princess’s ships thanks to the company’s ‘lackadaisical approach’ to safety.
A federal judge tossed the case but allowed the plaintiffs to amend their suit. To build a stronger argument, the couple must demonstrate they were likely exposed on the ship given the exact date they began experiencing symptoms and the virus’s incubation period.