Lawyers Work with Those Experiencing Eye Problems after the 2010 Gulf Coast Oil Spill

Exposure to oil and chemicals can lead to serious vision problems

The explosion at the Macondo drilling site in 2010 contaminated the waters around Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida, releasing nearly five million barrels of oil and two million gallons of dispersants into the Gulf of Mexico. The mix of toxic chemicals has been a danger to the dedicated cleanup workers struggling to make the region safe and to those who live in proximity to the shoreline or nearby bayous.

That mix of chemicals and the difficult work conditions that followed the spill made it likely for many people to have serious long- and short-term vision problems. The Downs Law Group assists recovery personnel and residents with receiving the compensation they need for their medical requirements. If you have had problems with your vision after the oil spill, our law firm can advise you on your specific situation.

For what symptoms of eye problems can you receive compensation?

The BP compensation fund outlines both symptoms and conditions for which money can be granted. Two symptoms listed as acceptable criteria for compensation under certain conditions are:

• Eye irritation
• Eye burn

If you have experienced either of those symptoms within 24 hours of exposure to oil, dispersants or other substances from the 2010 oil spill, our attorneys are prepared to consult with you on your particular situation.

Specific physical conditions eligible for medical benefits

The Deepwater Horizon Medical Settlement agreement also lists several conditions that, if diagnosed, are also potentially eligible for medical payments. Medical conditions covered include:

• Conjunctivitis — Irritation of the eye and outer lids from an allergic reaction or virus
• Corneal ulcer — A serious inflammation of the center of the eye caused by trauma or chemical injury and other possible sources
• Keratitis — An eye condition marked by pain that can be intense at times

Most of the symptoms of these conditions subside with proper care and time, but may still require significant medical costs and can affect your employment. If you experienced one of these conditions shortly after exposure to oil or chemicals from the 2010 oil spill, it’s in your best interest to consult with our law group.

You can receive payment for chronic eye conditions related to the spill

Certain long-term eye conditions are eligible for compensation from the BP settlement fund. Those conditions also require documentation, and other requirements for eligibility must be satisfied. Such conditions are diagnosed as sequela, which means an injury that has become permanent or has created chronic discomfort. The settlement fund covers damage caused by the direct splashing of oil or chemicals onto the eye.

Contact us for a free initial consultation regarding your eye injury and the 2010 Gulf of Mexico oil spill

Fumes or direct splashing from oil and chemicals are extremely hazardous to your vision. Long-term eyesight problems require extensive care and limit your ability to work. The Downs Law Group works with cleanup workers and residents who have suffered injuries and vision problems as a result of the BP oil spill and who have documented damage to their eye or ocular cavity. Contact us at 305-444-8226 or online to schedule a free initial consultation about possibilities for compensation for your medical expenses.