Increase in U.S. Military Civilian Contractors Workers Compensation Claims

Service members and those who suffer the experience of wars are often left to heal physical and psychological trauma. While some wounds make their presence known immediately, many manifests after weeks, months, and even years after one has survived or witnessed a traumatic event. As the rising numbers of civilian contractor workers’ compensation claims show, war-time trauma does not spare someone based on their discharge characterization or employee status. In fact, data suggests that civilian contractors often experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) at higher rates than non-civilians. Lack of training, in-service support, follow-up, stigma and various other reasons may contribute to these numbers. However, the fact remains that PTSD can take a devastating toll on a person’s livelihood.

A report by the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that there has been a consistent increase in the number of Defense Base Act (DBA) claims for the last seven years. The DBA is a federal workers’ compensation program that provides certain civilian employees with protections. These protections apply to civilian employees working overseas at a U.S. military base or those under a contract with the U.S. government. However, it is likely no surprise to learn that this process is far from straightforward and efficient resolution requires the experience of a DBA attorney.

A Defense Base Act attorney can help claimants maximize the benefits the law entitles them, allowing claimants the time and resources to focus on their recovery. An experienced DBA lawyer is a critical resource during all stages of a claim, such as filing, investigation, settlement negotiations, and disputes. These cases require claimants to submit a significant amount of evidence to substantiate their claims. A lawyer can gather the requisite evidence and present it compellingly to ensure that the claimant receives appropriate ongoing benefits.

Post-traumatic stress disorder civilian contractor claims are challenging, and despite the great strides in mental health awareness, these claimants face an uphill battle. However, the bureaucratic battle should not hinder a person’s recovery and integration back into the community. As such, civilian contractors suffering from serious mental health issues should file their claims timely to secure compensation for their expenses and losses.

Defense Base Act Attorneys

If you have suffered physical or psychological injuries due to your experience as a civilian contractor, contact Friedman Rodman & Frank. Our law firm handles Defense Base Act claims for civilian contract personnel workers who suffered injuries on the job. We handle claims for those who suffered injuries due to their time in Iraq, Afghanistan, Japan, Qatar, Cuba, Guam, Kuwait, Diego Garcia, and Haiti. In addition to DBA claims, our firm represents individuals under the Jones Act and Longshore Act. We provide clients with personalized attention to address their specific needs and desired outcomes. We can help you recover medical expenses for trauma care, diagnostic tests, specialist appointments, medical equipment and disability payments. To learn more, contact our office at 877-448-8585 to schedule a free and confidential consultation with a Defense Base Act attorney at our office.