Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill
Mobile, Alabama
The explosion aboard and subsequent sinking of the Deepwater Horizon oil rig in the Gulf of Mexico on April 20, is endangering wildlife in environmentally sensitive areas and thousands of individuals and businesses. The rig is owned by Transocean and leased by British Petroleum and these companies, as well as others, are liable for the massive spill which is contaminating the Gulf with 200,000 gallons of oil a day.
There is worry that this may be a much larger oil spill than the Exxon Valdez in 1989. The experienced Mobile, Alabama maritime accident attorneys at Long & Waite, P.C. are representing those who have incurred damages to their livelihood as a direct result of the oil spill.
Different industries affected by the oil spill include those involved in commercial fishing, shrimping, and oyster farming, and seafood processing and packaging. Also affected are the owners and operators of docks and marinas, private and commercial boat owners, private and commercial waterfront property owners, as well as city, county, and state governments.
Oil Pollution Act
It may take months before the shut off valve is fixed and the oil leak is stemmed, but by that time the beaches along the coast of Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Florida will be covered in oil. The damage caused by this oil spill will allow compensation to be paid out under the Oil Pollution Act (OPA) of 1990. The OPA allows different types of claims, such as:
- Property damage
- Boat Damage
- Natural resource damages
- Loss of profits and earning capacity
- Loss of subsistence use of natural resources
The OPA also allows claims that affect government, including loss of government revenue and increased public services.
All OPA claims are submitted to the National Pollution Funds Center. The experienced maritime accident attorneys at Long & Waite, P.C. can evaluate these claims to determine if they are complete so you may receive compensation more quickly.
The oil spill was not the fault of those who depend upon a clean and stable Gulf for their well-being. BP has stated it will pay those who have legitimate claims. Don't believe them. Be sure you are looking out for your own interests by being proactive.
If you have been impacted by the Gulf oil spill and need to file a claim, please contact the experienced Mobile, Alabama maritime accident attorneys at Long & Waite, P.C. for a free consultation today.