The Defense Base Act (DBA) is a federal law that provides workers’ compensation coverage for civilian employees working on U.S. military bases overseas and under government contracts in the event they are injured or killed in the course of their employment.

KBR, FLUOR Corporation, DynCorp, Vectrus and Labor Support Services are among the companies that have contracted with the United States to provide services in Iraq and Afghanistan.

If you are employed by one of these contractors and are injured while working on a U.S. military base or under a government contract, you may be eligible for benefits under the DBA.

The Process of Filing a DBA Claim

To file a claim under the DBA, you must notify your employer of your injury within 30 days. Your employer is then required to notify their insurance carrier, who will notify the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP).

You will then need to complete and submit a Form CA-1, “Notice of Traumatic Injury and Claim for Compensation,” to the OWCP.

Once your claim has been filed, the OWCP will determine whether or not you are eligible for benefits. If your claim is approved, you will receive benefits within a few weeks.

Pitfalls to Avoid When Filing a DBA Claim

There are a few things you should avoid doing when filing a claim under the DBA. First, do not wait too long to notify your employer of your injury. If you wait more than 30 days, your employer may deny your claim.

Second, do not try to file a claim on your own. The DBA claim process is complex, and it is best to have an experienced attorney help you with your claim.

Third, do not accept the first offer of benefits from the insurance company without proper review. The insurance company will likely lowball you, and you should have an attorney negotiate a fair settlement for you.

How a DBA Attorney Can Help

The DBA is a complex law with many different rules and regulations. If you have been injured while working on a U.S. military base or under a government contract, it is important that you speak with an experienced Defense Base Attorney.

An attorney will:

• Review your case to determine if you are eligible for benefits under the DBA.
• Help you file a claim with the OWCP.
• Gather evidence to support your claim.
• Represent you at all hearings and appeals.
• Fight for the maximum amount of benefits you are entitled to receive.

Javier Ruiz, Esq. has represented injured contractors from KBR, FLUOR , DynCorp, Vectrus and Labor Support Services who worked in Iraq and Afghanistan. Javier Ruiz, Esq. has represented contractors from India, Kosovo, Macedonia, the USA, Bosnia, and the Philippines.

DBA Injury has successfully represented hundreds of injured workers and has recovered millions of dollars in benefits for our clients.

If you have been injured while working on a U.S. military base or under a government contract, we can help you get the benefits you deserve.