• Blog Post

    CORONAVIRUS EXPOSURE AND NEGLIGENT INFLICTION OF EMOTIONAL DISTRESS

    The World Heath Organization recently classified the coronoavirus outbreak as a global pandemic, and everyone should consider steps to protect themselves from the virus.  But what if you’ve already been exposed?  Two passengers aboard the quarantined Grand Princess cruise ship filed a federal lawsuit in California, alleging Princess Cruise Lines, Ltd. (“Princess”) caused them emotional distress by exposing them to the virus. A claim of negligent infliction of emotional distress (“NIED”) will likely be among the causes of action included in the lawsuit. What is NEID, and how does a plaintiff establish a prima facie case?   The Elements   In North Carolina, to allege NIED, the plaintiff must establish…