Lawyers Assist Gulf Coast Cleanup Workers, Residents and Others in Recovery
After the Deepwater Horizon drilling platform exploded and collapsed, nearly five million barrels of toxic oil and other harmful chemicals were released into the Gulf of Mexico. It was one of the worst environmental crises in history, and more than 150,000 subcontractors and volunteers traveled to the Gulf Coast to assist with removal of oil from the water and shoreline. It was backbreaking work, but the cleanup effort was critical to protecting the health and restoring the economy of the entire region.
Many people who worked on that effort were exposed to dangerous levels of chemicals that have resulted in costly health conditions and medical bills. You may be entitled to medical benefits if your condition meets certain criteria. The Downs Law Group can help you if you are suffering from the health effects of the BP oil spill. If you need medical benefits for health conditions that arose after the spill, consulting with one of our lawyers is in your best interest.
Medical benefits available for cleanup workers and coastal residents following the BP oil spill
The medical effects of the oil and other pollutants released into the Gulf Coast waters are widespread, and the health effects are destined to be felt for years. People who have lived close to or worked in the affected zones are likely to develop sinus issues and eye problems from airborne chemicals or even respiratory problems and neurological conditions that require extensive treatment. Several groups of people qualify for medical benefit compensation under the BP fund:
- Cleanup workers — Those who were subcontractors or other types of cleanup personnel between April 20, 2010 and April 16, 2012
- Zone A residents — People living on specified beachfront areas designated Zone A for at least 60 days between April 20, 2010 and September 30, 2010, and who have been diagnosed with a condition from a specific list of illnesses
- Zone B residents — People living on specified wetland or bayou areas designated Zone B for 60 days between the April 20, 2010 and September 30, 2010 time period
Our firm can help assess whether your health condition is included in one of the groups for medical conditions that are covered under the fund.
How much medical compensation is available to those who were affected?
The amount of compensation granted in each case depends on the condition and the costs associated with it. Some people may be granted a small lump sum initially, while others may qualify for enhanced compensation for such things as lengthy hospital stays. The amount available also varies, depending on whether the person filing the claim is a cleanup worker, a Zone A resident or a Zone B resident. Potential lump sum payments are available for:
- Chronic conditions — Chronic conditions are those that require long-term care and may be permanent. Cleanup workers, fishermen, oystermen, and shrimpers are eligible for compensation if they qualify. Zone A and Zone B residents and visitors may also be eligible to receive compensation as well.
The amount of money granted for medical conditions may increase significantly if a person can demonstrate hospitalization or other factors that require additional compensation. People who were exposed to oil and other chemicals following the spill are at risk for long-term medical conditions. Our personal injury lawyers can assist with details about your specific eligibility.
Contact us for a free initial consultation
If you have assisted with recovery efforts and lived in Zones A or B and have experienced health problems, you may qualify for medical benefits. The Downs Law Group represents people unfairly injured as a result of the Gulf Coast oil spill. Speak with one of our lawyers to find out more about your options for compensation and medical benefits. Contact us for a free initial consultation at 305-444-8226 or online.
