Many of the civilians that work on military bases or other government institutions in Florida can find themselves facing serious hazards. These high-risk environments frequently involve working on construction or infrastructure projects where injuries are unfortunately common.
If you have been hurt under these circumstances, traditional workers’ compensation benefits are not available to you. The good news is that a Florida Defense Base Act lawyer could help you get the recovery you deserve. Reach out to a Defense Base Act attorney today to learn more about your options.
What is the Defense Base Act?
The Defense Base Act extends the benefits paid out through the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act to civilians who have been hurt while working on a military base or other government installation. It also applies to people working under federal contracts overseas. Claims can be filed under a variety of employment categories. For example, they are frequently used by construction workers when accidents occur at a build site.
Coverage Under The Act
Benefits are only available under the Defense Base Act in very specific circumstances. The injured party must be a civilian, as those who serve in the military have medical coverage through the VA. What’s more, a person is only eligible when they work on certain types of government-funded projects. Most claims involve civilian employees who work on military bases or installations. The accidents that occur at these facilities can vary, from vehicle accidents to explosions.
Many people who ultimately file a claim are federal contractors working abroad. This includes building or maintaining American infrastructure in other countries. Some individuals performing humanitarian work or providing foreign assistance may be eligible.
The best way to get a clear picture on eligibility involves speaking with legal counsel. A Defense Base Act attorney can review the circumstances surrounding an injury to a Florida resident and determine if a claim is likely.
Types of Available Benefits
It is possible to recover different types of benefits when these claims are successful. The Defense Base Act provides both medical benefits and disability compensation, which can have a tremendous impact on a person’s life after being hurt at work.
Medical Benefits
Medical benefits through the Defense Base Act are designed to pay the full cost of reasonable care stemming from an injury. These treatments must be necessary a necessary part of recovering from the injury. Some of the things benefits can pay for include:
- Doctor visits
- Surgical procedure
- Hospitalization
- Physical therapy
- Prescription drugs
- Ambulance transportation
Unlike a personal injury lawsuit where it can take years to get fair compensation for an injury, these medical benefits are paid out right away. There is no need for the injured worker to cover these costs themselves and then seek reimbursement.
Disability Compensation
Disability compensation replaces an individual’s wages when their condition makes it impossible for them to earn a living. These disabilities could be temporary, or they could hamper a person’s ability to work forever.
When a claim is successful, the injured worker will receive weekly payments designed to replace their lost wages. The amount depends on the severity of the injuries and the wage earned immediately before the injury.
Injured Florida Residents Can Talk to a Defense Base Act Attorney Today
Civilian workers are frequently at risk of serious injury, whether they are working on a military base or serving overseas. If you believe you qualify for benefits, now is the time to speak with a Florida Defense Base Act lawyer. These claims can result in you recovering benefits that can change your life for the better, but the process is rarely simple. Instead of filing on your own, reach out as soon as possible to learn about your rights.
