Florida Lawyers Help Gulf Coast Oystermen and Shrimpers Get Benefits and Compensation
Vital to the region’s economy and the hardest hit by the 2010 BP oil spill
Nearly half of the nation’s seafood comes from the Gulf of Mexico. Shrimpers and oystermen in Louisiana, Texas, Alabama, Mississippi and Florida do a difficult job and supply the United States with world-renowned ingredients. The 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill made their difficult jobs much harder. Years after the spill, oyster beds in much of the area have not recovered and signs suggest that the presence of oil will prevent recovery for much longer. Shrimp are being found without eyes and with other severe abnormalities.
The Downs Law Group proudly fights for oystermen and shrimpers who have had their health and livelihood threatened by the BP oil spill. If you have had your business impacted or have experienced significant medical issues, you may be entitled to compensation. Our attorneys are prepared to answer your questions about your specific legal options.
Shrimpers and oystermen have suffered heavy losses following the spill
The shrimp and oysters caught in the Gulf of Mexico are famous throughout the world for their quality. The Gulf of Mexico also supplies about 40 percent of seafood demands in the United States. However, oyster beds and shrimp catches have suffered heavy losses following the 2010 oil spill. Large oyster populations have been unable to reproduce, and there have been numerous reports of deformities in shrimp and other marine life as they react to chemicals from oil and dispersants in the water around them.
The changes experienced in the Gulf Coast marine life have been alleged to be the result of the oil released following the destruction of the Deepwater Horizon oil platform. Those changes have seriously affected both the quantities of oysters and shrimp and their reputation for quality. As a result, many shrimp and oystermen have suffered serious financial losses. Some of these economic losses may be covered by the BP compensation fund. Our attorneys can advise you about your rights and specific options for recovery.
Many working in the Gulf of Mexico have suffered severe health problems
In addition to losing huge portions of their annual catch, large numbers of fishermen and others who work on the water have reported significant medical issues following the 2010 oil spill. Common issues include:
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Many of the reported conditions could be the result of chemical poisoning. The residual oil in the Gulf of Mexico and exposure to toxic dispersants may be part of the source of the health issues that so many are experiencing. People who work in or around Gulf Coast waters are the most vulnerable to chemical exposure. If you are suffering after the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, our attorneys can provide information about medical benefits that may be available to you.
Contact our firm today for a free initial consultation on legal options available to oystermen and shrimpers
Harvesting shrimp and oysters is tough, demanding work. Those who work in the Gulf of Mexico waters are most at risk for health effects from residual oil and other chemicals left in the water. Others have already suffered significant financial losses from depleted oyster and shrimp populations or damage to their equipment. If you have been harmed by the Gulf oil spill, contact the Downs Law Group at 305-444-8226 or online to schedule a free initial consultation.