BP OIL SPILL / OIL POLLUTION

On April 20, 2010, a massive explosion occurred on the British Petroleum (BP) owned deep water drilling rig known as the Deepwater Horizon an event which may have economic and environmental ramifications the likes of which this country has not seen since the Exxon Valdez disaster.  The explosion on the BP Deepwater Horizon, which could be seen from miles around, caused the rig to sink and resulted in what, at this point, can easily be classified as a catastrophic oil spill.  Although speculative, the oil spill which precipitated is estimated to be releasing a constant oil flow in excess of 210,000 gallons of crude oil per day.  The resulting oil slick has already reached several Louisiana coasts and, if not controlled shortly, is anticipated to reach the coasts of several more Gulf coast states, including Mississippi, Alabama and Florida.  To be sure, the BP oil spill is epic and may have long-lasting impact on the Gulf of Mexicos ecosystem as well as the economy of the adjacent states. 

The extent and scope of the economic impact resulting from the BP oil spill is unknown at this time but, certainly, will be far reaching.  Those affected from this tragedy will be plentiful and will vary from giant business consortiums of fishermen to individual shrimpers, oysterers and other fishermen.   But the consequences of the BP oil spill also will be felt by many indirectly.  For instance, seafood processors, manufacturers, sellers and retailers may be adversely affected by the Deepwater Horizon disaster.  Condominium owners, restaurants, convenience stores, ports and other businesses which thrive off of the seafood industry and tourism may also be economically impacted. 

There is good news, however.  Those individuals and businesses which are negatively affected, either directly or indirectly, from the BP oil spill disaster may have legal recourse.  Although it is not yet known how far liability will be extended, at this point it appears that British Petroleum, Halliburton, Transocean and Cameron International all have been implicated.  But it is important that potential claimants find a lawyer who understands the legal issues involved in this type of maritime environmental disaster.  Richard Voorhies, Attorney at Law, has the resources and knowledge to represent you and your business in going forward against those responsible for this disaster.  Richard has successfully represented families and businesses in other environmental and toxic tort disasters throughout the State.    

Of course, the extent of damages sustained and the particular facts surrounding your claim will determine the damages which may be sought.  For example, because of the size and scope of this disaster, some claimants may be consolidated into class actions or multi-district litigation (MDL).  The fact is that you should find a lawyer whom you trust to advise you of your legal rights arising out of the BP oil disaster.  Call Richard today for a free consultation and let him fully advise you of your legal rights.