There can be serious risks for civilian contractors working abroad on behalf of the U.S. military or as part of a foreign assistance delegation. When these workers are injured are killed, a traditional workers’ compensation claim is not available. Instead, they have the opportunity to seek an award through the Defense Base Act.
If you believe you are entitled to recovery following an overseas injury on a military base, it is critical that you speak with an experienced personal injury attorney today. The claims process can be complex, and not every person hurt working in another country qualifies for benefits. Reach out to a Maryland Defense Base Act lawyer to learn more about your options.
The Purpose of the Defense Base Act
The federal government adopted the Defense Base Act in order to provide financial support for civilians working at U.S. military bases abroad after they are injured or killed. What’s more, coverage also applies to individuals who work abroad either through the U.S. Foreign Assistance Act or through some kind of public works contract in another country.
It is worth noting that coverage applies broadly. For example, a claimant does not have to be a United States citizen to qualify for compensation. What matters is that they were working behalf of the U.S. at the time they were injured. Claims are also possible whether the incident occurred while the contractor was actively working or not.
The benefits that come with this coverage can be life changing, but insurance companies are not hesitant about issuing a denial. In order to have the best chance at a positive outcome, it is a good idea to rely on a Defense Base Act attorney who handles claims for Maryland residents.
Injuries on Overseas Bases That Can Lead to a Claim
Any injury could potentially result in a Defense Base Act claim if the injured party is eligible for benefits. However, some types of accidents are more common than others. Many of these claims are made by people working in the construction field, either building or maintaining American military bases or providing support with allied infrastructure.
The scope and nature of an injury can vary dramatically, from severe burns to paralyzing spinal cord injuries. While immediate medical care is available, injured workers ultimately have the right to seek treatment with their own medical provider once they return home.
There are two distinct types of damages available regardless of the nature of an injury. Claimants can have the full cost of their medical care paid for without the need to seek reimbursement, but they also are entitled to recover a disability award that covers their last wages, both past and future.
Understanding Your Eligibility
While it might not be immediately clear who is entitled to damages through the statute, an experienced Defense Base Act attorney for Maryland residents can answer questions about eligibility. The most common situation that leads to a claim is when a civilian works in the defense industry on either an overseas U.S. military base or any other land in a foreign country utilized for military purposes.
Alternatively, a person may qualify if they are injured while working abroad on a contract that is funded by the federal government. This could include any kind of public works contract either as part of a military effort or to build infrastructure on an allies’ behalf.
Talk to a Maryland Defense Base Act Attorney Today
If you were injured while working abroad on or around a military base, you could be entitled to financial compensation. These claims can be challenging to manage without help, so reach out to a Maryland Defense Base Act lawyer today for strong guidance.
