BP Oil Spill Settlements in Florida
Florida BP Oil Company Settlements Happening Now
Since the Gulf Coast Claims Facility (GCCF) began processing BP oil spill claims on August 23, 2010, checks for emergency advance payments (EAPs) are now flowing. EAPs promptly reimburse victims for up to six months' worth of losses to relieve financial hardships caused by loss of employment and property damage.
GCCF Administrator Kenneth Feinberg stated that most claimants will not need an attorney to receive a Florida oil spill settlement, and that their payments will be far faster and more generous than any settlement one can receive through a court trial.
The choices cash-strapped victims must make are very difficult. They may obtain a final settlement now through the GCCF and sign forms releasing oil spill offenders from further liability, or take their chances in court. Bear in mind that hundreds of individual and class action lawsuits were already filed in eight states. Since the volume of cases is overwhelming the courts in the Gulf States, trials could drag on for years before they result in a Florida oil company settlement.
Understanding the GCCF claims process
Many GCCF claimants are hotel owners, fishermen, and others who make their living at Gulf beach resorts or out at sea. The claims process they must all follow is spelled out clearly on the GCCF website (www.GulfCoastClaimsFacility.com).
The $20 billion Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund established by BP in June 2010 funds these claims. Among the damages that GCCF claims compensate for are the following:
- Removal and clean up costs
- Real or personal property damage
- Lost earnings or profits
- Loss of subsistence use of natural resources, such as fishing
- Physical injury or death
GCCF states it is a neutral agent in the claims process and committed to providing helpful service and generous, prompt payments to Gulf region victims.
Contact us before you settle
While the GCCF insists that claimants do not need legal representation, they can refer you to lawyers who can represent you, sometimes on a pro bono or voluntary basis.
At Baker & Baker, a prominent Florida-based personal injury law firm, we caution Florida residents and business owners about accepting final Florida BP settlement from the GCCF without first consulting a qualified attorney. Since it will be years before the true scope of the environmental and property damage becomes known, you may be releasing BP and other oil spill culprits, such as Halliburton and Transocean, from liabilities before your losses are properly assessed.
If you or a loved one suffered lost wages, harm or property damage as a result of the BP oil spill, we can provide you with insightful advice regarding your legal options and represent you in claims, trials and class action lawsuits. Please call us today at (850) 316.8247 or fill out our online contact form to arrange for your free initial consultation.
