Update January 20, 2021: The Tennessee Department of Health (TNDH) has updated its COVID-19 vaccination plan. Some counties have entered phase 1B of the plan, which covers teachers and staff of childcare centers and K-12 schools, as well as first responders not previously vaccinated in Phase 1a1. To find out if your county has entered phase 1B, please consult TNDH’s map.
Additionally, TNDH allows vaccinations on an age-based criteria statewide; currently those 75 and older are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Tennesseans are encouraged to register for the COVID-19 vaccine at TNDH’s eligibility website
Updated July 2, 2020: Mayor John Cooper has announced that Tennessee will be reverting to “phase 2” of its roadmap for reopening due to increasing cases of COVID-19-related illnesses. The reversion goes into effect on July 3, 2020.
COVID-19 has swept through the United States in recent weeks, prompting a national emergency as the world braces against the pandemic. Tennessee has seen its own fair share of cases, with at least 784 people testing positive as of March 25, 2020 for the novel coronavirus as of this publication. No deaths have yet been reported.
In light of these uncertain circumstances, the Nashville personal injury lawyers at Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys encourages residents throughout the state to follow all local mandates, security protocols, and recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO).
Tennessee COVID-19 Safety Tips
During such an unprecedented crisis, it’s more important than ever to look out for the safety of our friends, family, and the community at large. In addition to our COVID-19 Resources page, we’ve compiled these Tennessee COVID-19 safety tips to help you prevent the spread of disease and avoid personal injury.
Tip #1: Stay Home When Possible
A crucial step in preventing the spread of the novel coronavirus is to practice social distancing. Because COVID-19 is spread through close personal contact with those who are infected, staying home whenever possible can greatly reduce the rate of transmission. If you can, work from home. Avoid gatherings of more than 10 people whenever possible.
Tip #2: Practice Good Hygiene
One of the simplest ways to protect yourself, your family, and your community is by practicing good hygiene. This means washing your hands with antibacterial soap for at least 20 seconds every time you eat, use the restroom, or come into contact with a shared surface. It also means avoiding the urge to touch your face, keeping personal contact to a minimum, and wiping down surfaces with disinfectant or soap and water whenever possible.
Tip #3: Keep Shopping Trips to a Minimum
“Panic buying” has taken hold of almost every major grocery chain in the country as people try to stock up on household essentials like toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and non-perishable food items. Try to avoid large shopping trips that put you in prolonged contact with the public.
If possible, shop before or after peak hours and be mindful of others. Avoid confrontations with other shoppers. If someone is acting aggressive or trying to start a fight, disengage immediately.
In addition, overworked and understaffed retail staff may be unable to keep up with regular store maintenance, meaning there is a higher chance of spills and scattered merchandise displays that could cause a slip and fall accident.
Tip #4: Travel With Caution
International travel has plummeted due to travel restrictions, but what about traveling within the United States, or within your own city? While canceling non-essential travel plans is the wisest choice, if you need to travel short or long distances, there are things you can do to protect yourself and others.
If traveling by plane, check with your local airport prior to flying to find out if there are any special protocols or screenings you’ll need to take part in. Bring hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes, and do your best to create as much space between you and other travelers. If you are showing any symptoms of COVID-19 or are otherwise feeling unwell, stay home.
If you’re traveling by car, you may be pleasantly surprised to find Tennessee roads less busy than usual. However, you should still be on high alert. There may be an increased number of stressed out, drowsy, or otherwise impaired drivers on the road. This can lead to road rage incidents or Nashville auto accidents. Drive carefully, stay calm, and drive in shifts during long car rides if you find yourself feeling drowsy.
Injured During the COVID-19 Pandemic?
Though you may follow all the necessary Tennessee COVID-19 safety tips, accidents still happen. If you suffer injury because of another party’s negligence, even in the midst of the novel coronavirus outbreak, Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys will be there for you.
Our personal injury attorneys in Nashville are available day and night to take your call, whether you need assistance with an ongoing case or want to schedule your free consultation. Contact us today at 615-333-8888. You can also chat online with a live representative, or submit the details of your case from the comfort of your own home using our secure contact form.