Deepwater Horizon Disaster: One Year Later

It has been a year since eleven seamen were killed in the Deepwater Horizon disaster.  Many families are still waiting for compensation for the loss of their loved ones or for injuries sustained when the offshore oil platform exploded.
 
Survivors of the tragedy may have recovered from most of their injuries, but they still deal with depression, anxiety, nightmares and post-traumatic stress disorder. For many, the pain and guilt of surviving when their co-workers did not, is overwhelming. These issues affect the ability to function through daily life, to earn a living and to maintain relationships.  In fact, they affect whole families.

Many others suffered indirectly because of the explosion. Gulf residents who depend on the water to earn a living could not return to work.  Fishermen could not fish; tour boats were grounded.  Restaurants and hotels that were dependent on tourists lost money.  BP set up an account known as the Deepwater Horizon Disaster Victim Fund to cover up to $20 billion in claims, but most of that has not been paid.
 
As the investigation of the BP-Transocean oil rig explosion has progressed, serious violations have come to light.  We can only hope that this tragedy results in stronger safety regulations and better protection for workers.

The maritime injury attorneys at The Young Firm have not forgotten the victims of April 20, 2010. We will continue fighting to help victims get the compensation they deserve for the events of that day.