New research indicates that the amount of oil spilling into the Gulf of Mexico as a result of the explosion of a BP oil rig may be much higher than thought. Experts had estimated the rate of spillage at 210,000 gallons a day following the April 20 explosion and fire, which killed 11 workers and critically injured three. However, researchers have now discovered enormous plumes of oil deep under water, suggesting that the rate of spill may have been much higher and that the total may exceed the current estimate of 5.5 million gallons.

In the meantime, BP has finally made some progress in slowing the spill. On May 16, BP successfully inserted a pipe into the well to siphon off some of the oil and pump it to a ship on the surface. However, an unknown amount of oil continues to gush into the ocean, and BP acknowledges that the siphon is merely a stopgap measure.

President Barack Obama has stated that the disaster “could jeopardize the livelihoods of thousands of Americans who call [the Gulf] home.”  Indeed, the spill is already beginning to take a toll on the region’s $2.4 billion fishing industry and could threaten Florida’s $65 billion tourism industry.

The Obama administration has made it clear that BP is responsible for stopping the leak and paying for all cleanup and legal claims associated with the spill. For its part, BP has stated that the company will pay all “legitimate” claims related to the oil spill.

Those who live and work in the region and have been impacted by the spill should contact a personal injury lawyer, such as a BP oil spill Pensacola attorney, to discuss their options. In order to obtain financial compensation, it is necessary to compile a full accounting of all losses. A skilled personal injury lawyer can provide assistance in compiling the necessary information and initiating legal action.