Working on overseas government contracts can expose civilians to traumatic events that have lasting psychological effects. If you are struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after working under a qualifying federal contract, a Pennsylvania Defense Base Act claim for PTSD may allow you to recover benefits for your condition. An experienced DBA attorney can help you understand whether your injury qualifies and guide you through the claims process.
At Schechter, Shaffer & Harris, we understand that psychological injuries can be just as serious as physical ones. Our personal injury team helps injured workers evaluate their legal rights under the Defense Base Act and pursue the benefits they deserve after work-related trauma.
PTSD Coverage Under the Defense Base Act
The federal workers’ compensation protections provided through the Defense Base Act cover many civilian employees who perform work outside the United States under qualifying government contracts. Those with PTSD may qualify for benefits when the condition relates to their covered employment, even if they did not suffer a physical injury. Many qualifying PTSD claims involve workers who experienced:
- Armed attacks or terrorist incidents
- Explosions or combat-related events
- Witnessing serious injuries or fatalities
- Repeated exposure to life-threatening situations
- Other traumatic incidents occurring during covered employment
The Defense Base Act incorporates the benefits provided under the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act. You can find the federal law governing these claims in 42 U.S.C. § 1651, which outlines the act’s coverage for eligible civilian employees working on qualifying government contracts overseas. Understanding these federal requirements can strengthen a Pennsylvania resident’s claim if you developed PTSD while performing qualifying work covered by the Defense Base Act.
What Challenges Can Arise in a PTSD Claim?
Mental health injuries are often more difficult to prove than visible physical injuries. Insurance carriers may question whether PTSD resulted from your overseas employment or whether another factor contributed to your diagnosis. In Pennsylvania, supporting a Defense Base Act claim for PTSD often requires substantial medical evidence. This may include:
- Psychological evaluations
- Treatment records
- Documentation of workplace incidents
- Opinions from qualified mental health professionals
Prompt diagnosis and consistent treatment can strengthen your claim and support your recovery.
Because these cases frequently involve disputed medical evidence, legal representation can be valuable when responding to denied claims, requests for additional documentation, or disagreements over the extent of your disability.
Building a Strong Case for Your Recovery
If you developed PTSD while performing covered work under the Defense Base Act, building a strong claim in Pennsylvania begins with the specific facts surrounding your employment, your traumatic experience, and your medical condition. Our attorneys gather the documentation needed to demonstrate that your condition has resulted from covered employment and that you qualify for the benefits available under federal law.
Depending on the facts, compensation may include medical treatment for PTSD, disability benefits, and other forms of relief provided under applicable federal law. We also assist clients with delayed or denied claims by gathering additional evidence, addressing disputed issues, and advocating for their interests throughout the claims process.
Pennsylvania Call Us in Pennsylvania About Defense Base Act Claims for PTSD
If you are living with the effects of work-related psychological trauma, you do not have to face the legal process alone. A Pennsylvania Defense Base Act claim for PTSD can provide a path to benefits under federal law, and understanding your rights is an important first step.
At Schechter, Shaffer & Harris, we are prepared to answer your questions, explain your options, and help you move forward with clarity. Contact our legal team today to discuss your situation.
