Injured in a Work Accident at a Military Base Overseas? How the DBA Protects You

Nov 19, 2020 | Defense Base Act, Workers' Comp, Workplace Injury

Did you know that the US operates almost 800 military bases in 70 countries around the world?

In addition to the military personnel who get stationed there, countless civilian workers also take jobs on military bases overseas. They sign a contract with the US government for their services, whether it’s for national defense or public works.

When civilians work at an overseas base, they’re protected under the Defense Base Act (DBA). This program provides workers compensation and other benefits to employees and contractors during their tenure abroad.

What happens if there’s a work accident and you need to file a DBA claim? Read on to learn more about your rights and how a DBA attorney can help.

Who Qualifies for Protection Under the Defense Base Act?

Under the terms of the Defense Base Act, employers and contractors must obtain DBA insurance for their civilian workers. This applies to civilians who work for:

Private companies that operate on US military bases
US government contractors abroad
Contract services for foreign aid
US military welfare programs

This insurance provides medical, disability, and death benefits to civilian workers. It also covers vocational rehabilitation benefits if someone is permanently disabled following a work accident.

What Happens If There’s a Work Accident?

If you’re injured or develop PTSD while working on a base overseas, immediately notify your supervisor. This is the first step towards filing your DBA claim.

Document everything pertaining to the accident. Take pictures of the location and surrounding area. Get statements from witnesses and keep records of all communication with your superiors, coworkers, and medical staff.

The more information you can provide, the stronger your claim will be.

What Should I Know About DBA Claims?

Ideally, your claim will be accepted and you’ll receive fair compensation for your injuries. It doesn’t always work out that way, though, which is why it’s so important to understand your rights.

For starters, you might discover that your employer failed to obtain the required DBA insurance. As this is a violation of federal law, your employer will likely lose his contract and pay heavy fines. This is, of course, in addition to the money they’ll pay to cover the expenses associated with your injury.

What if your loved one was killed on the job while working on a base overseas? Even if their employer didn’t have DBA insurance, you can still file a suit against the employer.

How else does the DBA protect you? Even if your employer has the necessary coverage, they may still deny your legitimate claim. It’s also not uncommon to receive a lowball settlement offer from the insurance company that isn’t enough to provide for your needs.

Given all these factors, many in your shoes turn to a DBA attorney for professional legal counsel.

How Can a DBA Attorney Help Me?

Have you already filed a DBA claim that’s been delayed or denied? Or are you thinking of filing a claim but you’re not sure how to do it?

DBA law is complex, and it takes a knowledgeable attorney to navigate the ins and outs. Whether you were injured in a work accident or are suffering from PTSD, it’s important to have a legal professional on your side.