by R. Drum

Created on: May 14, 2010   Last Updated: May 18, 2010

How the Explosion and Spill Occur?

The investigation is continuing, but reports indicate that a bubble of methane gas rose up the drill pipe, surrounded the deck platform, and was ignited by a scalding rush of crude oil. Investigators believe that an incomplete isolation by the cement plugs used during the finishing process allowed a buildup of annular pressure, leading to a casing failure during a negative pressure test. Thereafter, the Blow Out Preventers (BOPs) failed to seal the well leak because of an obstruction, possibly a tool joint on the pipe.

How Will the Spill Affect New Orleans Businesses and Wildlife ?

Louisiana's wetlands support more than 400 fish and wildlife species, whose habitats are threatened by the spill and chemicals used during the clean-up process. Tourism in New Orleans may suffer due to concerns about local seafood contamination.  Longer-term environmental concerns and economic haunt Louisiana's fishing industries, which produce one-half of the nation's annual shrimp crop and more than one-third of the nation's Blue Claw Crabs and oysters. 

Which Companies Are Potentially Liable for the Damages Caused By the Spill?

In testimony before Congress, executives of BP, Halliburton, Cameron, and Transocean accepted responsibility damages caused by the disaster, while pointing fingers at each other.

Were You Asked to Sign a Waiver of Your Right to Recover for Damages?

BP has approached hundreds of Gulf Coast fishermen, offering up to $1,500 a day for use of their boats, bur also demanding that the fishermen give up some of their rights to sue BP if they get injured while participating in the clean-up work. Under pressure from lawyers representing fisherman, BP was agreed not to demand waivers.  Stuart H. Smith, a partner in the New Orleans law firm of Smith Stag, LLC, recommends that workers who are asked to sign waiver agreements consult with an attorney before giving away their legal rights. His firm has assembled a team to prosecute claims for those who have been affected by the spill.  For the latest updates on the spill, visit www.nola.com/news/gulf-oil-spill/. 

Learn more about this author, R. Drum.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.