Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are on the rise in Rhode Island – and social media is likely to blame, according to a recent CBS News report. Recent health data released by the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDH) revealed there is an epidemic of STDs, and is pointing to the popularity of online dating apps, such as Tinder. According to the RIDH, in 2014 syphilis cases are up 79 percent, gonorrhea has increased 30 percent and new HIV cases are up 33 percent when compared to 2013. If you or someone you know has been infected with an STD, you may have legal recourse under state law. Contact an experienced STD lawsuit attorney for a confidential, free initial case evaluation.
STD Lawsuit
Failure to disclose knowledge of an STD to a sexual partner is a crime and may be subject to an STD lawsuit. New York health law requires an individual who is carrying an STD to present this fact to a partner before engaging in any sexual contact. While an express list of venereal diseases is not specified in the law, generally accepted diseases relating to STD law include hepatitis, HIV/AIDs, syphilis, gonorrhea, and other sexually transmitted diseases. A potential for a STD lawsuit involves a type of tort law, which involves the intentional or unintentional act of a person causing an injury to another’s person or property. If a plaintiff proves a tort has occurred, the defendant may be held liable for monetary damages to the victim(s). Individuals found guilty of violating this law will likely be charged with a misdemeanor, which includes up to one year in jail and a monetary fine of up to $1,000. Should the accused be found guilty of conduct that creates a risk of death and shows indifference for human life – known as “reckless endangerment” – the charge becomes a felony. Punishment of a felony may include up to seven years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $5,000.
Health care providers can also be held liable for exposing, or transmitting, an STD to a patient. If an infection occurs in a medical setting a plaintiff may have a basis for a medical malpractice suit, unless the transmission of the disease occurred during sexual intercourse.
Legal Help in New York for a STD Lawsuit Litigation
With an STD lawsuit, cases can be difficult to prove. This is because the incubation period is different and sometimes dormant, depending on the type of venereal diseases involved. For this reason, it is necessary to contact an experienced and passionate employment STD lawsuit attorney to handle your case. The skilled attorneys at Levine & Blit, PLLC will manage your case with full regard for your rights. Call (212) 967-3000 today to discuss your case with a skilled attorney.