Jack J. Casciato, partner at Clifford Law Offices, authored an article for the Lawyers Forum section of the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin, a respected source of information and resources for the legal community of Chicago.
Published Thursday, March 23, 2023, Jack’s piece titled “Has Pandemic Become Excuse for Corporate Safety Lapses?” explores the recurring theme that corporations have used the pandemic as justification to forego required and necessary safety measures. He explains that this concern has become apparent during the discovery process of cases as parties testify and share information.
“Whether the facts reveal that a truck driver never completed a required road test, a corporation failed to conduct emergency drills, or a lifeguard or instructor failed to undergo scheduled safety training, too often a corporate witness will testify, “Well, it was during COVID,” he writes.
He shares statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, that show a significant increase in the rate of workplace fatalities in 2021 compared to pre-pandemic rates in 2019. Meanwhile, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recorded the fewest number of inspections from 2020-2021.
In his article, Jack poses the theory that the defense might use the pandemic as a courtroom ploy to garner sympathy from jurors during a case that questions adherence to safety measures. He suggests plaintiffs file motions in limine to prevent mention of the pandemic during a case or trial.
Jack J. Casciato is an experienced personal injury attorney with Clifford Law Offices who concentrates on major truck accidents, premises liability, and complex personal injury and wrongful death litigation. His years of experience as a truck accident defense attorney provide him with incredible insider knowledge as he advocates for individuals involved in tragic accidents against corporations and insurance companies.
To read Jack’s article in full, click here.