The DBA Claim Settlement Process

Posted on Wednesday February 24, 2021

Many DBA claims must go through settlement negotiations to ensure you receive the benefits you deserve. The process is different for everyone, and a DBA lawyer can advise on what to expect for your settlement negotiations. 

When you file a claim with your employer’s insurance under the Defense Base Act (DBA), you might expect to receive benefits for medical care and lost wages easily and without much of an issue. However, many people learn that the insurance company plans to pay them much less than they deserve. This is especially true in cases involving lump-sum settlements for serious or lasting injuries. 

DBA insurance companies know how to minimize settlements so they can maximize their profits. These companies take advantage of unrepresented claimants, who often unknowingly accept settlement offers that are far too low. It is important to seek help and representation from DBA lawyers who can stand up for your rights in settlement negotiations. 

Settlement Negotiations

In order to receive benefits, you must file a claim with the proper information and proof of your job-related injuries. This is best accomplished with the help of DBA lawyers who understand how to present the strongest claim, especially if you are expecting a lump sum for permanent injuries. 

No matter how strong your evidence and claim might be, however, you can expect the insurer to offer a settlement that is less than you deserve. This might be due to the company undervaluing the severity of your future injury-related effects and costs, or the company might just be lowballing in hopes that you’ll accept it. 

Too many people accept inadequate offers because they believe it is their only option or they don’t know how to negotiate with the insurance company. However, once you accept an offer, you cannot go back and request more. It’s critical to have the right lawyer reviewing all offers and negotiating if needed before you accept anything. 

An attorney will be able to answer the following questions and more:

• How much should you ask more?
• What settlement offer is sufficient or insufficient?
• Will a specific offer cover your future losses?
• How do you reach an agreeable settlement with the insurer?
• What are the possible benefits available for PTSD or other non-physical complications?

Calculating the benefits you need is the first step, and many people underestimate their future costs, resulting in much less money than they should receive. The insurance company is not going to argue with you if you request too little. Start with the strongest calculation by a skilled attorney. 

Then, your attorney can:

• Identify when a settlement offer is inadequate
• Present any additional evidence needed to prove full benefits for you
• Understand insurance tactics and stand up for your rights in all communications or negotiations

Hopefully, through lawyer-guided settlement negotiations, you can move forward with the DBA benefits you need. 

Learn more: Documents You Might Need for DBA Claims

Let Our Experienced DBA Lawyers Help You

When you need to negotiate a claim, you want the help of the DBA lawyers at the Mara Law Firm. Call (619) 234-2833 or contact us online to set up a free case evaluation and learn about the many ways we can help you get the benefits you need. 

David Mara

David Mara, founder of Mara Law Firm, PC, is a California employment attorney specializing in wage and hour law and representing injured civilians under U.S. defense contracts. He has recovered tens of millions for workers and contributed to landmark cases like Brinker Restaurant Corp. v. Superior Court. A member of multiple legal organizations, he also shapes California labor laws through legislative reviews. Mara holds a B.A. from San Diego State University and a J.D. from California Western School of Law and is admitted to practice in various federal courts.

At Mara Law Firm, we are dedicated to fiercely advocating for workers who have faced wage theft, violations of California labor laws, or injuries sustained under a U.S. Defense Contract. With decades of experience, our attorneys provide personalized, confidential, and no-cost consultations to ensure the best outcomes for our clients. We bring unmatched expertise to protect your interests and fight relentlessly to secure the compensation you deserve, guiding you through every step of the legal process to uphold your rights and deliver the relief you need.

Contact us now for a free and confidential consultation

message us 619-234-2833