Have you or a loved one been injured while on a military base?
Heard that the Defense Base Act may be able to help you out, but not sure what that is or how it works? We’re here to help!
In this article, we’re covering everything you need to know about this act, including the ways in which a defense base act attorney can help you out.
So, you can approach your injury in the best way (and with the best legal team).
What is the Defense Base Act?
The Defense Base Act is a program that provides workers with compensation protection when working outside of the U.S. on a military base, or when they’re under contract with the U.S. government in the name of national defense.
It adopts provisions from the Longshore And Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act.
This act requires that these employees provide payment of disability, medical, and death benefits to employees when an injury or death occurs. If the employer fails to secure compensation payment, employees can then sue that employee for tort damages.
What are the Benefits of the Defense Base Act?
The benefits paid out under the Defense Base Act depend on the severity of the injuries.
If it is a case of total disability, the employee is entitled to two-thirds of their average weekly earnings up to a dollar maximum.
If the employee dies, half of their weekly earnings go to their surviving spouse or child.
What is a Defense Base Act Attorney?
A defense base attorney is an attorney who specializes in these specific cases.
They are experienced in representing U.S. contractors who have been either injured or killed overseas, and they’re masterful in getting you all the compensation you deserve.
3 Ways a Defense Base Act Attorney Can Help You
Now that you know what a defense base act attorney is, you’re probably wondering whether or not hiring one is worth it. Here are 3 ways a defense base act attorney can help you if you’ve experienced an injury on a U.S. military base.
Offer Expertise
Not every lawyer can take on a specific kind of law or case. And the last thing you want to do is hire a lawyer who isn’t ready to handle a case as complex as a DBA one.
DBA lawyers can expertly pursue a specialized BA claim. They’ve got years of experience advocating on behalf of people like you. And they know exactly what needs to be done to navigate the claim in the fastest and most efficient way possible.
They Move Things Quickly
DBA cases are often very administrative and have a lot of rules and regulations around them that can be difficult to follow. This means it can be easy to misinterpret or fall behind on your claim, which can greatly delay your benefits payout.
DBA lawyers know the ins-and-outs of this case, and they can keep you on track at all times. This means you can rest easy knowing you’re approaching your claim in the smartest way, and that you’re on track to getting what you deserve.
They Can Fight for You
Sometimes DBA claims are harder than expected. Your employer’s DBA insurance may contest the extent or duration of your injury and refuse to pay you the full amount you’re entitled to. In this scenario, you absolutely want an attorney who will fight on your behalf.
A DBA attorney will make sure the insurance company is doing right by you and your claim. And they’ll represent you in any hearings to help resolve disputes as they arise.
Need Legal Help?
If you or a loved one have been injured on a U.S. military base, you should absolutely consider filing a DBA claim. And if you’re nervous about doing so, hire a defense base act attorney. They can make sure you get the compensation you rightly deserve.
Do you need to speak with an expert attorney? Contact us to set up a free initial consultation.