Tips for a Successful DBA Claim

Posted on Wednesday January 20, 2021

Every Defense Base Act (DBA) claim is different, and unique and unexpected issues can arise. It is best to have the guidance of a DBA lawyer to ensure you have the best possible chance of filing a successful claim from the start. 

If you are injured while working on foreign soil as a defense contractor, the Defense Base Act (DBA) provides benefits for your losses, much like workers’ compensation provides benefits for domestic workers. Unfortunately, also like workers’ compensation, DBA claims do not always go as planned. In many cases, insurance companies will deny or delay your benefits, causing potential problems and stress for your household.

Below are some tips you can follow to have a better chance at a successful claim right from the start. Seeking help from a  DBA lawyer regarding your specific situation is always the best course of action. 

Report the Accident and Injuries

You should report what happened and your suspected injuries to your supervisor or someone else with authority. Make sure that you report all areas of your body that might be injured, because if you forget one, it might lead the insurance company to challenge that injury later on. This is especially important for injuries to your head, neck, shoulders, low or middle back, and other unscheduled injuries. Do not forget to report possible mental injuries, as well. 

If your employer allows you to do so, take photos of the location where you suffered injuries, as well as any visible injuries themselves. This can serve as evidence of the accidents and the resulting injuries for your claim. 

Seek Medical Treatment

Many defense contractors are tough, and it can be tempting to “push through” the pain of an injury. However, seeing a medic right away can improve your claim. If you see a base medic, make sure you request and receive copies of those medical records so your treatment can be covered as part of your DBA benefits. These records might be more difficult to obtain at a later date. 

If you are scheduled for upcoming R&R, and you want to start your treatment during that time, still make sure that the medic checks out your condition regularly until then. If you sustained disabling injuries, you should not wait until R&R for treatment, but instead request a medical leave of absence to get the full treatment you need. Doing so can help demonstrate the severity of your injuries and that you could not work with the effects of your injuries. 

Speak with a DBA Lawyer about Your Claim

Perhaps the best thing you can do to ensure a successful claim for benefits is to contact an experienced DBA lawyer for help. What you do – or don’t do – in the days and weeks following your injuries can impact the outcome of your claim, so you want the advice of the legal team at Mara Law Firm as soon as possible. 
Our DBA attorneys work with overseas contractors who suffer a wide range of injuries on the job. We know how to fight for the benefits you deserve, including medical treatment and lost wages. Call (619) 234-2833 or contact us online for a free case evaluation.