REOPENING BUSINESS IN THE WAKE OF COVID-19 -

As federal, state, and local regulators issue guidelines allowing businesses to reopen during the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis, businesses face the risk of personal injury claims by individuals who contract the virus. While employee lawsuits are likely, businesses may also face litigation from customers and family members of employees. Indeed, personal injury lawsuits have already been initiated against various businesses, including meat processing plants, educational institutions, and rehabilitation and nursing home facilities. This White Paper explores common theories of liability that we anticipate will be a focus of this potential new litigation and sets forth recommendations for businesses seeking to mitigate their exposure to such liability.