Gulf Coast Oil Spill / Oyster Farmer Economic Damage Claims
On April 20, 2010, an explosion on the oil rig Deepwater Horizon caused it to sink in the Gulf of Mexico. The oil rig disaster also allowed oil to leak from the sea floor at a rate of at least 5,000 barrels (210,000 gallons) a day. The damage to wetlands and wildlife along the coastline has been devastating. The oil spill is taking its toll on local businesses, including oyster harvesters.
The maritime attorneys of Arnold & Itkin understand that the Transocean Deepwater Horizon explosion and subsequent oil spill has resulted in catastrophic injury, environmental damage, and financial loss for oyster fishermen and others who ply their trade in Gulf Coast waters. We provide a comprehensive legal response for all individuals negatively affected by the actions of the negligent parties. If your livelihood has been endangered, contact our Houston oil spill attorneys to discuss the legal remedies available by calling 1 877-398-4972 or by filling out our online contact form.
A massive oil slick driven by wind, currents and tides has forced officials to close oyster harvest areas. The closures will remain in effect until officials have determined that environmental conditions are within the requirements specified by the National Shellfish Sanitation Program.
On top of the immediate environmental damage, there will also be an impact on future oyster harvests. Oil can kill oyster larvae. Although mature oysters close up when they taste oil, they may use up all their energy reserves while they’re not feeding. This means that they won’t reproduce for that year.
Oysters are very likely to be affected by the oil slick that reaches the coast because they are immobile and cannot be moved to oil free areas. This is bad news for the oyster industry because a large percentage of the oysters that Americans eat are harvested in the Gulf of Mexico. In fact, Louisiana alone represents about 41 percent of all U.S. oyster production. Texas, Mississippi, and western Florida also produce smaller, but significant, amounts.
The oil spill has had a drastic impact on many industries, businesses, and individuals. As a commercial fisherman, you may be entitled to damages for the economic harm caused by this avoidable disaster. We can help you collect money from BP, who was drilling at the time of the oil rig explosion, and other liable parties. If you have been affected, you may be able to recover financial compensation for property and personal damages, lost past and future profits, and loss of the oyster beds where you earned your livelihood.
Contact the qualified, professional attorneys of Arnold & Itkin LLP, for an evaluation of your case. We serve clients throughout the nation, and we work hard to maximize our clients’ recoveries. We take more cases to trial than many other firms because our preparation and hard work allow us to go into the courtroom with the confidence that we will win. Call us today at 1 877-398-4972 or contact us online.
