Documented Effects of Oil Spills on People

By Jimmy Doan  Aug. 20, 2010 9:15a

If you are suffering from the effects of an oil spill you need to contact a personal injury law firm as quickly as possible. Effects from an oil spill can have devastating consequences both short term and long term. Following are some documented effects of oil spills which have occurred over the years:

Exxon Valdez Spill (1989)

• It was reported that there were 1,811 compensation claims filed by people involved with the spill. Claims were related to respiratory difficulties, contusions, cuts, sprains, and dermatitis.

The Braer Oil Spill (1993)

• People who were living within a five kilometer radius one to two weeks after the spill had high degrees of throat irritation, dermatitis, headaches, itching eyes, but most symptoms were resolved quickly.

The Prestige Oil Spill (2002)

• Throat and respiratory problems were the most frequently reported by seaman and workers who had been working for more than twenty days in highly polluted areas.

The results of the studies done on these spills showed that both workers and local residents can and did suffer ill health effects after the spills. The main symptoms were dizziness, acute headaches, skin rashes, eye and throat irritation and breathing problems. Some genetic abnormalities were also found in some studies, but not in others.

Individuals who have jobs that are affected by oils spills experience even greater loss as their source of income is affected and they cannot bring in income to support themselves and their families.

Recent Gulf Oil Spill

Oil contains petroleum hydrocarbons which are toxic. They can irritate the airways and skin and pose even greater problems to those who already have respiratory difficulties. Oil also contains volatile chemicals (VOCs) which can cause sudden health problems such as dizziness, nausea, headaches. Long term, many of these chemicals have been associated with cancer so the cause for concern is valid. Pregnant women are at greater risk as VOC's have been linked to miscarriages.

Have You Been Harmed By An Oil Spill?

If you have suffered any losses from an oil spill you should contact a personal injury lawyer at the Doan Law Firm. We specialize in personal injury cases in the Houston and surrounding area and may be able to help you get compensation for any losses. You may be experiencing negative effects from the recent Gulf Oil spill which in April of this year was reported to be about the size of the entire state of Maryland. Many of the coastlines are expected to suffer along Texas, Louisiana, Florida, Mississippi and Alabama.

Contact a Houston Personal Injury Lawyer at our office for an appointment with one of our attorneys to discuss your options.