The Defense Base Act is a federal law that provides workers’ compensation benefits to civilian employees of the United States employed in foreign countries. The act ensures that these employees are provided medical care and financial compensation in the event of an injury or illness sustained while on duty. In order to ensure that these benefits are properly obtained, it is essential to employ the services of a qualified workers’ compensation Defense Base Act attorney.
An experienced Defense Base Act lawyer can provide invaluable guidance and support throughout the claims process, ensuring that all legal requirements are met, and all relevant evidence is put forward as part of the claim. Additionally, a qualified attorney can provide sound advice on any other matters related to the case, such as filing deadlines, appeals processes, or any additional compensation or damages that may be available.
It is important for those who have been injured or become ill due to working abroad for the U.S. government to understand the rights afforded by the DBA. Representation from a skilled Defense Base Act lawyer can help guide you in this complex process.
Workman’S Compensation Laws And Federal Injury Lawyers
The Defense Base Act covers government contract employees and civilian employees working on military bases overseas. It provides workers’ comp coverage in the event of injury or death that occurs while performing service outside the United States under a contract with the U.S. Government.
DBA lawyers understand the nuances of the Defense Base Act and its related federal regulations, offering injured civilian employees and their families expert guidance to ensure they receive the maximum allowance. This includes medical treatment, lost wages, disability compensation, and survivor’s benefits. By advocating for workers’ rights with experience and knowledge of DBA regulations, attorneys are an essential resource for anyone facing an injury-related claim overseas.
When seeking legal advice on matters related to a Defense Base Act claim, it is important to find an experienced DBA lawyer dedicated to serving the community. Working with someone with a passion for helping those who have been hurt while serving their country can make all the difference in getting a fair DBA settlement after an injury or death abroad.
What Is Defense Base Act Workers Compensation?
Defense Base Act workers’ compensation coverage is available to employees working on U.S. military bases and other locations outside the United States. This includes government contractors, subcontractors, contracts approved by the Secretary of Labor, and third-country nationals working for the U.S. Some covered contractors may sell military equipment, materials, and services for companies like Halliburton, KRB, and DynCorp.
Under this act, covered employees working overseas or on a military base can receive medical benefits if injured or become ill due to their employment. Additionally, they can receive disability benefits if they can no longer work. Death benefits are available for surviving family members in the event of an employee’s passing due to a job-related incident or illness.
What Is An Injured Worker Entitled To Under The Defense Base Act?
When it comes to protecting the rights of injured workers, the DBA provides a unique set of benefits. This law was enacted in 1941 as an extension of the Foreign Assistance Act and is specifically designed to protect civilian contractors overseas for military purposes. As such, this act guarantees key benefits for any injured worker that may arise from their employment.
So, what exactly are these DBA benefits? Here is a short list outlining some of the most important ones:
- Insurance coverage
- Maximum compensation for lost wages
- Complete medical expenses coverage
- Reimbursement for travel expenses related to the care required due to the injury
- Coverage for vocational rehabilitation services
- Compensation for post-traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injuries
- Compensation for disability
- Survivor benefits
When filing DBA claims, individuals are often curious if they can choose their own doctor for ongoing medical care. The short answer is yes. However, you must obtain authorization from your employer or insurance company. Employers and insurance carriers have a list of approved physicians for workman’s comp claims that can be provided to you.
Each DBA case is unique and could be eligible for additional benefits depending on the circumstances. An experienced DBA attorney can help identify all potential sources of compensation and guide you through the process, ensuring that you get the maximum recovery possible under the law.
The Compensation Rate For An Injured Employee Under The Dba
When determining the compensation rate for an injured employee under the DBA, it is essential to consider the employee’s average weekly earnings prior to their injury. Average weekly earnings are calculated by taking the total wages paid the year prior to their injury and dividing it by 52. This calculation will determine the base rate of compensation that an injured employee is eligible for under the DBA.
The following table outlines the specific guidelines regarding compensation rates for Defense Base Act claims:
| Compensation Description | Rate of Compensation |
| Temporary Disability | Two-thirds of Average Weekly Earnings |
| Permanent Disability | Two-thirds of Average Weekly Earnings with Adjustments for Age, Dependents, etc. |
| Death Benefits | Two-thirds of Average Weekly Earnings plus Funeral Expenses up to $3,000 |
The Defense Base Act has been amended several times and incorporates several provisions from other acts, such as the Longshore & Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA). Employees often need to seek legal counsel to understand their rights under the DBA and obtain compensation.
When Do I Need A Defense Base Act Workers Comp Attorney?
Navigating the complexities of the Defense Base Act (DBA) can be challenging for employees. It is important to understand when you may need a DBA worker’s compensation attorney and what they can do to help.
A worker’s compensation attorney can help an employee or their surviving spouse seek medical treatment, determine benefits eligibility, and move forward with filing a claim. An attorney can also provide representation if an appeal process is required or if an insurance company denies an initial claim. They will work to ensure that all legal requirements are satisfied and that the injured employee receives the maximum amount of financial support available through the DBA. In addition, they can advise on any other legal matters related to your claim, such as seeking additional compensation through other resources or developing strategies to maximize long-term financial security when faced with a permanent injury.
Sometimes people think they can’t afford to take action due to expensive attorney fees. Rest assured. We only get paid if you do. With our expertise in this area of law, we make sure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Have You Been Injured Overseas? Our DBA Workers Comp Lawyers Can Help!
If an employee is injured while performing job duties for national defense, they may be eligible to receive workers’ comp benefits under the DBA.
Our team of Defense Base Act lawyers has extensive experience handling claims for individuals injured on defense bases overseas. Obtaining compensation from a government agency or insurance carrier can be problematic and complicated when doing it alone. Our attorneys will work to ensure you receive proper medical care and financial compensation for any non-scheduled or scheduled injuries, as well as those not explicitly detailed in the DBA. We will fight diligently on your behalf against any opposition from an insurance company or other party responsible for paying benefits.
Our goal is to secure maximum benefits so that you can focus on healing and getting back to work as soon as possible. Contact us today to discuss how our experienced DBA workers comp lawyers can help you receive the compensation you deserve.
