Section 1
The Defense Base Act (DBA) is a crucial piece of federal legislation that provides workers’ compensation benefits to civilian employees working under U.S. government contracts overseas. Enacted in 1941, the DBA extends coverage to individuals who work on military bases, support U.S. defense operations, or contribute to public works projects abroad. These workers include construction crews, translators, security personnel, and even humanitarian aid workers supporting government-funded projects. If a civilian contractor suffers an injury while performing their job duties, they are entitled to medical care, disability compensation, and other benefits under the DBA, regardless of who was at fault for the accident.
Unlike standard workers’ compensation laws, the DBA ensures that employees injured overseas have access to benefits under U.S. law, providing a critical safety net for those working in often-dangerous environments. Covered injuries can include everything from broken bones and spinal damage to psychological conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) resulting from combat exposure or hostile environments. However, despite these protections, securing the compensation you deserve is not always straightforward. Insurance companies and employers frequently dispute claims, delay payments, or offer settlements far below what an injured worker needs for recovery.
One of the biggest challenges injured employees face is navigating the complex claims process while dealing with their injuries. Many employers and insurers exploit the system’s legal complexities, hoping claimants will either give up or accept a lower amount than they are entitled to. This is why it’s critical to have an experienced Defense Base Act attorney by your side. A skilled legal team can guide you through the claims process, advocate on your behalf, and fight to ensure that you receive the full range of benefits you deserve. If you have suffered an injury while working under a U.S. government contract overseas, do not hesitate to seek legal counsel to protect your rights.
Section 2
When an injured worker files a Defense Base Act claim, they often expect to receive fair compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and ongoing care. Unfortunately, many employers and their insurance carriers use aggressive tactics to minimize payouts, prioritizing their financial interests over the well-being of injured employees. One common strategy is disputing the severity of an injury, claiming that the worker can return to duty sooner than medically advisable. Employers may also argue that the injury was pre-existing or unrelated to the worker’s job duties in an effort to avoid paying benefits altogether.
Insurance companies often hire their own doctors to evaluate claimants, many of whom have a track record of downplaying injuries or attributing them to non-work-related causes. These medical opinions can then be used to justify lower settlements, reducing the amount of money the injured worker receives. Additionally, insurance adjusters may intentionally delay claim processing, hoping that financial strain will force the injured worker to accept a low settlement out of desperation. In cases involving PTSD or traumatic brain injuries (TBI), insurers frequently challenge the legitimacy of the diagnosis, even when multiple medical professionals have confirmed the condition.
Another tactic is offering a lump-sum settlement before the full extent of the injury is known. Many injuries, especially those involving nerve damage, PTSD, or orthopedic complications, can worsen over time. Once a claimant accepts a settlement, they typically forfeit their right to additional compensation, even if their condition deteriorates. This can leave workers without the financial support they need for ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation, or lost earning capacity. Employers and insurers count on claimants not fully understanding their rights and often pressure them to settle quickly before they can seek legal advice.
That is why it is critical for injured workers to consult with an experienced DBA attorney before agreeing to any settlement. A knowledgeable lawyer can assess the true value of a claim, counteract lowball tactics, and ensure that the claimant receives the compensation they are entitled to under the law. If you or a loved one has suffered a work-related injury while employed under a U.S. government contract overseas, do not let employers or insurers take advantage of you—seek legal representation to protect your rights and secure your future.