Gulf Oil Spill FAQs

• Q: What is the Oil Pollution Act of 1990?
  A: The Oil Pollution Act (OPA) is the  most comprehensive oil pollution legislation ever enacted in the United States.  It provides that each party … More
• Q: What legal remedies are available to individuals and businesses affected by the Gulf Oil Spill?
  A: Under the Oil Pollution Act, companies responsible for an oil spill are liable for damages to individuals and businesses affected as a result. Commercial fishermen, … More
• Q: Is compensation available to tourism businesses and workers for lost income or profits as a result of the Gulf oil spill?
  A: Yes.  Under the Oil Pollution act, if you've lost profits or income as a result of an oil spill, you may submit a claim for lost profits or earning … More
• Q: I own or lease property damaged by an oil spill. Am I entitled to compensation for the damages?
  A: If you own or lease property that was damaged by an oil spill,  you may be able to receive compensation under the Oil Pollution Act (OPA).  You may be … More
• Q: My boat was damaged by the Gulf Oil Spill. Am I entitled to damages?
  A: If you own or lease a boat that was damaged by the Gulf oil spill, you may have a claim for that damage under the Oil Pollution Act.  For example, under the OPA, … More
• Q: What is needed to file a claim for damages resulting from the Gulf Oil Spill with the National Pollution Funds Center?
  A: To submit a claim for compensation with the NPFC for damages from the Gulf Oil Spill, the Oil Pollution Act requires you to submit the following: 1.  Proof … More
• Q: What is the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund (OSLTF)?
  A: The Oil Liability Trust Fund (OLTF) was created by Congress in 1986.  When the Oil Pollution Act was put into place, it authorized the user of the Fund to pay … More
• Q: Does the law limit the amount of money an oil company is liable for after an oil spill?
  A: Section §1004 of the Oil Pollution Act provides:  "The liability for tank vessels larger than 3,000 gross tons is increased to $1,200 per gross ton or … More
• Q: If an oil company negligently caused an oil spill, then does the $75 million liability cap apply?
  A: No.  While the Oil Pollution Act limits the liability of a "responsible party" offshore oil rig to the total of all removal costs plus … More
• Q: If I submit a federal claim for Gulf oil spill damages, does that mean I can't join a private or class action lawsuit?
  A: If you've suffered property damage, loss of income, or other injuries as a result of the Gulf oil spill, you may have a claim for compensation.  You … More