Understanding DBA PTSD Claims: How the Defense Base Act Protects Contractors
As a Defense Base Act attorney with over a decade of experience representing civilian contractors in Iraq, Afghanistan, and beyond, I’ve seen firsthand how DBA PTSD claims have become one of the most critical—and misunderstood—areas of workers’ compensation law. The Defense Base Act (DBA) isn’t just for physical injuries. It fully covers psychological trauma like PTSD when it arises from overseas government contract work.
If you worked for KBR, DynCorp, Vectrus, FLUOR, or any U.S. defense contractor and now suffer from nightmares, anxiety, or hypervigilance, you may be entitled to lifetime medical care, wage replacement, and disability benefits through a DBA PTSD claim.
Start your free DBA PTSD claim evaluation today
What Are DBA PTSD Claims?
DBA PTSD claims allow civilian contractors to receive federal workers’ compensation for post-traumatic stress disorder caused by dangerous overseas work environments—even if you never fired a shot.
Key Eligibility Requirements for DBA PTSD Claims
- You were employed under a U.S. government contract outside the U.S.
- Your PTSD is linked to a specific traumatic event or cumulative exposure (e.g., rocket attacks, convoys, burn pits).
- You reported symptoms within the legal time limits (more on this below).
How the Defense Base Act Covers PTSD: The Legal Framework
The DBA, enacted in 1941 and administered by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), mirrors the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act but applies to overseas defense workers.
DBA PTSD Claims vs. Physical Injury Claims: Key Differences
| Aspect | Physical Injury | DBA PTSD Claims |
|---|---|---|
| Proof Needed | X-rays, medical records | Psychiatric evaluation, stressor evidence |
| Time to Manifest | Immediate | Can develop months/years later |
| Benefits Duration | Until healed (and in some specific injuries, lifetime medical disability is possible) | Lifetime medical + disability possible |
You can find more information here on scheduled and unscheduled injuries: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/owcp/dlhwc/ExplainingDBA
Covered Roles in DBA PTSD Claims
Your job title does not matter. We’ve won DBA PTSD claims for:
- HVAC Technicians (constant base alerts)
- Cooks & Food Service Workers (DFAC rocket attacks)
- Truck Drivers & Laborers (convoy ambushes)
- Administrative Staff (witnessing trauma)
View real DBA PTSD settlement examples
Step-by-Step: Filing Successful DBA PTSD Claims
Don’t let insurance companies deny your claim due to technicalities. Follow this proven process:
Step 1 – Notify Your Employer Within 30 Days
Even if symptoms appear later, report the stressor event (e.g., “June 15 rocket attack on Camp Liberty”) in writing.
Step 2 – Get a Formal PTSD Diagnosis
See a psychiatrist or psychologist familiar with DBA cases. Even a therapist can count!
Step 3 – File Form LS-203 with OWCP
This official claim form opens your DBA case with the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs.
Step 4 – Submit Supporting Evidence
- Buddy statements
- Incident reports
- Psychiatric IME (Independent Medical Exam)
Common Mistakes That Destroy DBA PTSD Claims
Accepting Lowball Settlements
First offers are often 10–20% of fair value.
Schedule your free DBA PTSD case review
Start Your DBA PTSD Claim Today
You served your country in dangerous places. Now let the Defense Base Act serve you.
If you worked overseas under a U.S. contract and suffer from PTSD, don’t wait. Insurance companies hope you’ll give up.
DBA Injury fights for contractors from all nationalities—USA, Philippines, India, Bosnia, Fiji, and beyond.
Call +1-954-408-7408 or click here to begin your DBA PTSD claim.
