Florida BP Litigation

Florida tourism hit hard by the BP oil spill

Tourism is the economic heartbeat of Florida.  As the premiere Florida industry, tourism brings more than 80 million visitors each year to the state, generating over $60 billion in taxable sales revenue.  The tourism industry employs over a million Florida residents.

Official estimates show almost 21 million people visited the Sunshine State in the second quarter of 2010, but the aftermath of the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico has created severe economic effects for the tourism business in oil-impacted gulf coast areas of the state.  With intense nationwide media coverage focusing on the worst localized effects, state tourism officials have been working relentlessly to let people know that Florida beaches are clean, clear of oil, and open for vacation pleasure.  And to protect those directly affected, a BP lawsuit in Florida offers the possibility of legal protection and remedy.

Bad news spreads fast, dominates coverage

The impact of national media coverage of the BP oil spill has caused countless lost opportunities for the Florida tourism industry.  As a regional industry that is so central to the state economy, the tourism business extends throughout coastal communities and into the largest Florida cities.  All are adversely affected by anything that creates uncertainty among travelers.

  • Travel agents in Florida and elsewhere have seen thousands of cancelled reservations and a sharp decline in near-term bookings.
  • Rental shops along the Gulf Coast have seen sharp declines in the rental of boats, kayaks, jet skis, sail boats, snorkeling gear and scuba equipment.
  • Hotels, resorts, bars, and restaurants have been victimized by perceptions of unsafe foods and contaminated properties, and declines in tourism customers.
  • Beach chair and umbrella rental operators have seen fewer customers and declining rentals.
  • Charter boat operators have seen fewer customers, smaller groups, and declining bookings for fishing and diving charters.
  • Dive shop owners have seen declining rentals of diving gear, bookings for lessons, and bookings for dive charter trips.
  • Surf shops have seen lower surfboard and surf gear sales and rentals, and cancellations for lessons and surf camps.

BP litigation in Florida seeking protection

With so many businesses and individuals harmed by the BP oil spill, it is imperative that legal remedies are pursued professionally and with diligence and persistence.  A Florida BP class action in progress may provide relief, but those affected need good legal counsel to avoid missteps that can remove future legal remedies.

Contact us

Baker & Baker is known for our commitment to clients.  We work intensely on your behalf to achieve fair compensation for your losses.  If you or your business is suffering losses due to the BP oil spill, call Baker & Baker now at (850) 316.8247 or contact us online.

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