The coronavirus pandemic has changed the way that businesses in Miami and across the United States may conduct complex and everyday tasks. If an employer fails to adapt to their company to the threat of the coronavirus, they could be held liable if a worker is exposed to the deadly virus. Unfortunately, some employers may fail to adhere to guidelines set out by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other agencies, which will place their employees at risk of contracting the coronavirus. If you were exposed to the coronavirus at the workplace, consult with an experienced Miami attorney for fatal coronavirus exposure.
Prosper Shaked Accident Injury Attorneys PA recognize the dangers posed by forcing employees to work during the coronavirus pandemic, and we are here to fight for you. An employee should never be in fear of their life due to the carelessness of their employer. To schedule a free legal consultation to discuss your potential claim, contact Prosper Shaked Accident Injury Attorneys PA at (305) 694-2676. You can also contact our firm online.
Miami Workplace Precautions to Avoid Coronavirus Exposure
In the United States, there are over 1.3 million confirmed cases of COVID-19. Out of this number, over 200,000 people have recovered, while about 80,000 people have succumbed to the virus. The State of Florida has been hit harder than many other states, with over 40,000 confirmed cases and nearly 1,800 deaths. As a result, shutdown orders have been in effect for many industries that are considered non-essential.
COVID-19 is typically spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes and produces respiratory droplets that can infect others in the area. Specifically, if the respiratory droplets land in a person’s eyes or mouth, they could contract the virus. The coronavirus can also last on surfaces for an indefinite amount of time. Due to this, many agencies like the CDC and Occupational Safety and Health Association (OSHA) have recommended that people stay at least six feet apart while in public.
The CDC and OSHA have also set many guidelines to help companies keep their employees safe during the pandemic. Failure to adhere to these guidelines could result in an employer being held liable if a worker contracts the virus.
Use of Personal Protective Equipment
As mentioned, the coronavirus is often spread through respiratory droplets. To combat the spread of the virus, employers should provide workers with personal protective equipment (PPE). However, some employers may attempt to take shortcuts when providing workers with PPE. For example, if an employer only provides workers with one mask and expects it to be reused, this increases the risk of contracting the virus.
An employer should also provide other equipment like gloves, hand sanitizer, aprons, and other PPE. Failure to provide a worker with adequate PPE could make an employer liable for their infection.
Additionally, employers should consider enforcing strict policies to require customers to wear masks to protect employees.
Maintaining Distance Between Workers and Customers
The CDC has estimated that respiratory droplets can travel up to six feet or possibly even farther. As a result, it is vital for an employer to ensure that workers and customers remain a safe distance from each other. If workers are required to work in close proximity, there is a high risk that an infected worker could spread the virus.
Pre-Screening of Employees
To avoid having an employee spread the virus to their coworkers, employers should consider pre-screening stations to test employees for coronavirus symptoms before they enter the workplace. For example, if a worker arrives with a fever, they should not be permitted in the building.
Unfortunately, some employers may continue to use sick workers to avoid any additional loss of income. There are other steps that can be taken to avoid the spread of coronavirus at the workplace. To learn more about filing a wrongful death lawsuit against a negligent employer, continue reading and speak with an experienced Miami wrongful death lawyer today.
Filing a Wrongful Death Lawsuit After Fatal Coronavirus Exposure in Miami, FL
If you believe that your loved one contracted coronavirus at the workplace, you should consider filing a wrongful death lawsuit against the employer responsible for their death. Filing a wrongful death lawsuit during the COVID-19 pandemic can be challenging. While courts are still accepting cases, these cases could be severely delayed while the State of Florida determines how to reopen.
However, despite the restrictions imposed by the coronavirus, you should not avoid pursuing your legal claim. The court system would likely be flooded with coronavirus-related lawsuits if you choose to wait, and this could also impact your case. Additionally, you should be aware that the statute of limitations may still apply to your case despite the issues caused by the pandemic.
Our firm can help you explore your legal options when it comes to pursuing a wrongful death lawsuit for your loved one.
Contact Our Experienced Miami Lawyer for Fatal Coronavirus Exposure at Work
If your loved one passed away due to coronavirus exposure at work, you should contact an experienced Miami lawyer for fatal coronavirus workplace exposure. Wrongful death lawyer Prosper Shaked understands how the death of a loved one can affect a family during these uncertain times, and he is here to fight for you. To schedule a free consultation to discuss your legal options, contact Prosper Shaked Accident Injury Attorneys PA at (305) 694-2676.