Can You Sue A Nursing Home over COVID-19 Exposure?

Tens of thousands of elderly residents of nursing homes in the U.S. have died during the coronavirus pandemic, and the number continues to grow. Because the elderly are among the most vulnerable to infections like COVID-19, nursing homes and assisted living facilities are required by law to monitor, minimize and control the level of outbreaks. But many of these facilities have a sad history when it comes to reducing the transmission of germs and viruses. A 2019 study (https://www.gao.gov/assets/700/699721.pdf) found that 82% of nursing homes had been cited for problems related to infection control.

If an elder-care facility failed to take appropriate steps to limit the spread of coronavirus in their facility, you can hold them responsible for the illness or death of a family member in their care due to negligence. Did they implement stricter requirements? Did they provide the necessary protective equipment to staff to prevent the spread of the virus?  Did they properly isolate potentially infected residents? If the facility did not take reasonable measures to keep your loved one safe, they may have to pay for medical expenses, pain and suffering,  emotional distress and more. 

If you have a loved one who became ill or died of coronavirus while in a nursing home, you should contact an attorney as soon as possible. Nearly two dozen states have passed laws since March 2020 to limit the liability of health care providers during the pandemic. Nine states, including Mississippi, specifically protect nursing homes.

Call the Cochran Firm Mid-South at 901-523-1222 for a free consultation.