Oil Spill Damages – Protect yourself

Everyone along the Gulf Coast is going to be damaged by the oil pouring from BP’s Deepwater Horizon disaster. There are things those of we can do now to minimize our damage and help prove our claims.

First, pick up all debris along the shoreline. Trash is easier to pick up before it is covered in oil.

Second, take pictures of your shoreline and grass beds. Take more pictures as conditions change. Nothing proves before and after as well as pictures.

Third, make a diary. It will be years before you are compensated and having a diary will help you recall the damages and inconveniences you experienced. Do not worry about having too much in your diary. Record how bad business was over Memorial Day 2010, how you had to alter plans for 4th of July, days weeks and months when your fishing boat, beach house or restaurant was unusable.

The only way you can expect to be fully compensated for your loss is if you are proactive.