Florida BP Oil Spill Attorneys in Ft. Lauderdale
People are wondering what they will do if they have suffered a loss to their property or business as a result of the recent BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. Thankfully, the oil spill has yet to have massive effects on our state. However, the prospects are not looking too good for what may happen in the future. If you think you an show how the oil spill and BP's possible negligence has caused you to suffer a loss, then you may have a legitimate claim.
To decide if you may have a claim, it is important to understand that there are two possible categories of claims that you may fall under:
First, if you have suffered damage or an economic loss from the oil spill to your real property or your personal property, you may have a claim. Examples of such damage would be if you own a boat that has been damages by the spill, or if you have a water-front home that has been damages. Whether you own or lease this type of property, you may be able to submit a claim to have your property restored.
Second, if you have a business that has lost profits or if you have personally lost the ability to earn income as a result of the BP oil spill, you may also have a claim. Some examples of this type of damage would be if you are a commercial fisherman who can no longer fish or possibly even those who rely on commercial fisherman's catch for their business. The bottom line is that if you can establish that you have actually suffered a loss as a result of the spill, you may have a claim.
BP has responded to the Deepwater Horizon leak by focusing its efforts on short-term relief for those who have suffered losses. If you are a shrimper, crabber, fisherman, or certified boat operator who is unable to work, you may be eligible for a fast (within 48 hours) payment of up to $5,000 for a 30-day period to assist with your damages. Once the initial 30 days are up, we can help you re-apply for another 30 day payment. In the event that you receive a short term payment, it is important to remember that these payment will be subtracted from any potential future claim against BP.
The attorneys at Berman & Tsombanakis are here to assist you with dealing with the current problem. We are also here to protect you for whatever damages may come in the future. Contact us to see if we can help and one of our attorneys will provide you with sound legal advice and a clear understanding of your options.