Covid Wrongful Death Suits Test Employer Liability to Families

Families of workers who died of Covid-19 are suing businesses for allegedly failing to protect their employees from the virus, fueling ongoing calls from Republican lawmakers to shield employers from liability during the pandemic.

Walmart Inc., JBS NA, Tyson Foods Inc., Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., and Quality Sausage all have been hit with wrongful death “tort” lawsuits. This type of litigation can lead to high-dollar damages or settlements, depending on the case and where it’s filed.

Attorneys say these suits are an attempt to bypass state workers’ compensation systems, which provide lower-cost remedies like cash and medical benefits when ...